The global preclinical imaging market, which includes optical imaging, micro-MRI, microultrasound, photoacoustic imaging, and magnetic particle imaging systems, is expected to reach an annual value of $797 million by 2019, according to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets.
Several factors driving the growth include technological advancements in molecular imaging modalities, increasing adoption of multimodality imaging systems in preclinical research, and increasing acceptance of preclinical imaging systems in drug development, the company said.
North America holds the largest share of preclinical imaging, with Europe taking second place. Asia, however, is poised to grow the fastest, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 8.2% between 2014 and 2019, MarketsandMarkets said.
Challenges associated with the use of radioisotopes, including the short half-life of PET radioisotopes and the high costs required to manufacture them, will restrict the demand for micro-PET systems in developing Asian countries, according to the company.
