Development of radionuclide based instrumentation for the quantitative study of plant physiology

Renewable biofuels are primary research targets as sources for sustainable, net-zero-carbon, alternative energy. In this vein, we are developing an imaging device for whole plant measurement of vascular and metabolic processes. It will provide new information geared towards increasing the output of biofuels and the resilience of plant feedstock. Single Photon Emission Computer Tomography (SPECT) is a commonly used medical imaging technique capable of creating three dimensional images as well as time-lapsed, four dimensional images. SPECT relies upon the administration of radionuclides that emit photons at discrete energies. Establishing uptake and detectable emission threshold levels of delivered activity to a SPECT imaging subject is essential for successful quantitative studies. We present application of radionuclide based uptake and decay measurement of the commonly used medical isotope, ^99mTc, to the quantitative study of Populus deltoids physiology for the purposes of developing this species as a lignocellulose based biofuel feedstock.