The Tu Lab focuses on the innovative design, synthesis and validation of ¹¹C- and ¹⁸F-labeled small-molecule radiotracers. We identify key biomarkers in CNS disorders, inflammation and other disease processes, then synthesize and screen candidate ligands for PET imaging. Following validation in animal models of human disease and FDA-approval of lead PET tracers, we collaborate with physicians for translational first-in-human and proof-of–concept imaging studies.