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Master of Advanced Studies in Precision Medicine Therapeutics in Oncology MAS in PMTO

Precision Imaging and Artificial Intelligence Applications

Course Information

Haydee Ojeda-Fournier

PMTO 204 Precision Imaging & Artificial Intelligence Applications

  • 1 unit
  • Quarter Offered: Fall
  • Instructor: Haydee Ojeda-Fournier, MD, Professor and Division Chief, Department of Radiology, Division of Breast Imaging, UC San Diego Health.
  • Additional faculty: Sherief H. Gamie, MD, PhD, Division Chief & Medical Director of Nuclear Medicine & PET/CT, Professor of Clinical Radiology; Rebecca Rakow-Penner, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor Breast and Body Imaging; Tara Retson, MD, PhD, Instructor Breast Imaging

Course Description & Learning Objectives

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of imaging techniques in the context of precision medicine for multiple diseases. From the fundamentals of various imaging modalities to cutting-edge advancements, the learners will gain a deep understanding of the role of imaging in clinical practice, research, and the development of personalized treatment strategies. The course also examines the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and applications to clinical trials. There will be a focus on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and advanced DWI techniques with examples of translational innovations such as Restriction Spectrum Imaging (RSI) for Breast, Ovarian, and Prostate cancer imaging developed at UC San Diego Health. Finally, molecular imaging and applications in clinical trials and research will be covered. Real-world examples, such as the ISPY clinical trial, will be used to illustrate the use of imaging biomarkers in precision medicine.

This course stands out by bridging the gap between imaging techniques and their application in precision medicine. The focus on AI in clinical trials and the in-depth exploration of advanced imaging methods, such as DWI, RSI, and molecular imaging, sets this course apart from traditional imaging courses. Introduction to the theoretical, technical, and analytical methods for precision cancer diagnosis and for identifying individualized treatments using real-world examples.

Learning Outcomes & Skills Acquired from the Course

  • Develop a strong foundation in the fundamentals of various imaging modalities and understand the principles and applications of X-ray, Ultrasound (US), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Nuclear Medicine Imaging in the context of precision medicine.
  • Understand the fundamentals of molecular imaging and its applications in drug development, target identification, and therapy monitoring.
  • Become familiar with the principles of MRI and advanced diffusion-weighted imaging techniques for assessing tissue microstructure and cellular properties.
  • Acquire the knowledge and skills to identify and utilize imaging biomarkers for precision medicine applications.
  • Recognize the importance of imaging biomarkers in patient stratification, disease monitoring, and therapy response assessment. Analyze the ISPY clinical trial as a case study.
  • Explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in clinical trials, including image analysis, data integration, and decision support.
  • Additionally, students will gain expertise in the application of AI in clinical trials and advanced imaging techniques like DWI and molecular imaging.