A cutting-edge brain imaging platform that integrates upright PET scanning, an augmented reality (AR) headset, and motion tracking enables researchers to study brain function in a more natural and dynamic way. Presented at the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging 2025 Annual Meeting, the new system—called Motion-tracked Immersive functional PET (MIf-PET)—allows participants to sit upright and interact with immersive tasks during scans. This approach offers a more realistic view of brain activity and holds promise for earlier and more accurate detection of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Tokyo, Japan – Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a new way of telling “aged” human cells apart from younger ones using electric fields. While key markers have been found for these “senescent” cells, current methods require biochemical “labels” which are difficult to apply and affect the cells themselves, making them difficult to study. The new method is label-free and less damaging. The team aims to diversify the method, extending it to other cell types.