Preclinical Imaging Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (CT Imaging, Services, Ultrasound Imaging), By Application (Research and Development, Drug Discovery), By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

Report Overview

The global preclinical imaging market size was estimated at USD 4.05 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.74% from 2023 to 2030. The growing number of investments and funding in research and development coupled with the constant pace of technological advancements leading to the development of hybrid imaging systems is primarily driving the growth of the global market.

Preclinical research is transforming how modern medicine is delivered as well as how health problems are treated and resolved.Preclinical imaging techniques include the reduction of biological variability and the ability to acquire an impressive amount of unique information in distinct forms as well as a significant reduction in the number of animals required for a particular study, fully complying with 3R (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) policies. Furthermore, the increasing number of clinical research organizations (CROs) and pharmaceutical companies are increasing the adoption of in-vivo imaging systems in preclinical research, which is further expected to accelerate the growth of this market.

Preclinical imaging has seen a considerable transformation and improvement with the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence). The enormous amount of imaging data generated is processed and analyzed using AI approaches, allowing researchers to get important insights and advance their work more quickly. For instance, in May 2023, Koninklijke Philips N.V. introduced a Philips CT 3500, an innovative high-throughput CT system that is aimed at meeting the demands of large quantities of screening initiatives and regular radiology. The Philips CT 3500, which is operated by artificial intelligence, has several image-reconstruction and workflow-improving features that work together to provide the reliability, speed, and quality of images required for clinicians to diagnose patients with confidence and to increase return earnings - even in the most rigorous, substantial medical facilities.

On the other hand, the restrictions placed on animal testing due to regulations enforced by organizations, which protect animal rights are the major factors impeding the growth of the market. Therefore, the adoption of alternative methods such as in-vitro tests, micro-dosing, computer-based models, virtual testing of new drugs, and the development of computerized databases for testing purposes is rapidly increasing. However, modalities with non-invasive imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans are making their way into the market.

Product Insights

Based on product, the optical imaging segment held the largest market share of 13.6% in 2022 owing to their wide usage in small animal imaging and new drug discovery projects. The growing adoption of optical preclinical imaging can be attributed to several factors. Technological advancements in molecular imaging have revolutionized the field, providing researchers with more sophisticated and precise imaging capabilities. Furthermore, there is an increasing demand for non-invasive small animal imaging techniques in preclinical research due to their ability to study biological processes in living subjects without the need for invasive procedures. Furthermore, both private and public organizations have been investing significantly in preclinical research, driving the need for advanced imaging tools like optical preclinical imaging systems. The growth rate of the market is significantly influenced by the increasing healthcare expenditure, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare infrastructure. Moreover, various government organizations are actively aiming to bolster healthcare infrastructure by augmenting funding, thereby exerting a further impact on the dynamics of the market.

The multimodal segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 5.26% during the forecast period. The integration of multiple imaging modalities enhances the sensitivity and specificity of preclinical imaging studies. Each modality has its strengths & limitations, and combining them enables researchers to overcome individual limitations, resulting in more accurate & informative data. As technology continues to advance and research requirements evolve, multimodal imaging is expected to play an even more significant role in advancing scientific knowledge, understanding disease mechanisms, and developing new therapies in preclinical research.

In May 2022, FUJIFILM VisualSonics Inc., a global leader in ultrahigh frequency photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging systems, introduced the Vevo F2 multi-modal, a groundbreaking photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging system designed for preclinical use. The Vevo F2 is the world's first system to offer an ultra-high to low-frequency range (71MHz-1MHz), providing researchers with unparalleled imaging versatility. This pioneering system is promising and can advance preclinical imaging capabilities and contribute to significant advancements in research & development, thereby boosting segment growth.

Application Insights

In terms of application, the research & development segment captured the largest market share of 54.93% in 2022. The National Institutes of Health conducts clinical research trials for numerous diseases and conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, neurological disorders, allergies, cancer, and infectious diseases. Key CROs and prominent investigative site networks are focused on achieving competitive advantage by forming stronger relationships with academic health systems. Such collaborations can provide unparalleled access not only to large patient communities & professionals but also to considerable operating infrastructure when associations between healthcare and clinical research organizations are increasing.

For instance, as per the reports published by the Government of Canada in 2022, Canada's widespread network of research centers & academic health institutions supports clinical research & consists of 17 medical schools, about 40 groupings of academic healthcare organizations, and around 13,600 researchers. Overall, research & development in the market is instrumental in pushing the boundaries of imaging technologies, expanding the scope of preclinical research, and driving advancements in biomedical science. Through continuous innovation and exploration, research & development activities contribute to the growth and evolution of the market, ultimately benefiting the development of new treatments and improving patient outcomes in the future.

The drug discovery segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 5.21% during the forecast period. Preclinical imaging technologies are widely utilized in drug discovery to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of potential drug candidates before they advance to human clinical trials. The drug discovery segment of the market encompasses various applications and approaches aimed at identifying & validating new drug targets, assessing the effects of drug compounds in animal models, and optimizing drug development processes. Preclinical imaging contributes to the development of personalized medicine approaches by enabling researchers to study individualized treatment responses and tailor therapies to patients based on specific disease characteristics. For instance, in March 2023, Eli Lilly and Company reported that solanezumab, when administered to people having plaque composed of amyloid with no clinical evidence of the disease frequently referred to as the preclinical phase of AD1 using PET-imaging, could not decrease the progression of cognitive reduction caused by Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Only soluble amyloid beta is the target of solanezumab. In individuals who received the medicine in the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in a condition that is asymptomatic Alzheimer's disease for (A4) study, the treatment did not remove plaque or stop amyloid formation.

End-use Insights

In terms of end-use, the pharma and biotech companies segment captured the largest market share of 40.19% in 2022. The demand for preclinical imaging in biotech companies has been steadily increasing in recent years and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The growing market demand in pharma and biotech companies can be attributed to the spread of emerging & re-emerging infectious diseases and the need for preclinical imaging for a better understanding of pathogens, as well as to aid the development of new therapeutics & vaccines. Besides, constant experimentation on small animals and research activities in the laboratory has led to a rise in demand for PET and SPECT, fueling market growth.

The research institutes segment is expected to witness a CAGR of 4.86% during the forecast period, owing to rising research activities, which have created new demand for CT and MRI, among other procedures, in the institutes. In addition, imaging modalities have gained increased attention from researchers in observing changes in organs, tissues, cells, or at a molecular level in animals, leading to positive results in studies. For instance, in June 2023, Mediso Ltd. deployed its nanoScan 7T MRI system at the University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy. The new MRI system includes a cryogen-free superconducting magnet. With the nanoScan 7T MRI system, the University will characterize the preclinical models of diseases under development based on imaging features. It will also implement novel in vivo diagnostic techniques. This factor is expected to drive market growth over the estimated period.

Regional Insights

Based on region, North America dominated the global market in 2022 with a revenue share of over 29.87%. The major drivers of the market in North America include a well-developed research infrastructure, availability of skilled professionals, a large number of preclinical projects, and higher adoption rates of technically advanced devices in the region. Moreover, government initiatives are encouraging new clinical research and development projects in the region. Canadian R&D tax credit program is an example of one such government initiative boosting the R&D efforts in the country. Government support in the form of funding and tax benefits is positively impacting the market. Considering the above-mentioned factors, North America is anticipated to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period.

Asia Pacific region is growing at a lucrative CAGR in the market. Factors such as low research costs, less stringent regulatory guidelines, and increased government funding for the development of the research and development sector in the respective countries are making the region attractive for preclinical research studies. As a result, the clinical research outsourcing (CRO) industry is booming in emerging countries, such as China and India.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is highly fragmented and competitive. Market players such as the pharma and biotech industry are rapidly developing new drug therapies & therapeutic products with preclinical imaging products. For instance, in May 2023, United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd. at the recent China International Medical Equipment Fair, United Imaging displayed its entire portfolio of products, including PET/MR, DR, MR, PET/CT, CT, RT, and digital products, showcasing the products' artificial intelligence abilities across modalities. PET/CT uEXPLORER, uMR Jupiter 5.0T, the ultra-high-field experimental 9.4T MR, and uMI Panorama incorporated with artificial intelligence features, that are intended to give medical professionals more precise tools for addressing a range of clinical scenarios. Some prominent players in the global preclinical imaging market include:

• Bruker Corporation

• Siemens A.G.

• General Electric (GE)

• TriFoil Imaging

• PerkinElmer, Inc.

• VisualSonics Inc. (Fujifilm)

• Mediso Ltd.

• Agilent Technologies

• MILabs B.V.

• MR Solutions

• Molecubes

Preclinical Imaging Market Report Scope

Global Preclinical Imaging Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global preclinical imaging market report based on product, application, end-use, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • CT Imaging

  • MRI Imaging

  • PET/SPECT Imaging

  • Multi-modal Imaging

  • Optical Imaging

  • Ultrasound Imaging

  • Photoacoustic Imaging

  • Reagents

  • Services

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Research and Development

  • Drug Discovery

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Pharma and Biotech Companies

  • Research Institutes

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Mexico

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait