Preclinical Imaging Market Summary

The preclinical imaging market size was estimated at USD 1.0 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.6 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2033. This steady growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, rising investments in drug discovery and development, and the growing demand for non-invasive imaging techniques that support early disease detection and therapeutic assessment. As research activities intensify across academic, clinical, and industrial settings, the need for reliable imaging tools that provide high-resolution biological insights continues to increase.

The adoption of advanced imaging modalities for early-stage research, combined with the expansion of translational research programs, further accelerates market expansion. These advanced technologies allow researchers to visualize molecular and cellular processes in real time, enabling more efficient evaluation of potential drug candidates. Additionally, government initiatives, including grants and funding programs from major agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the U.S. and similar bodies across Europe and Asia, are providing substantial financial support for preclinical research activities. For instance, in September 2022, the NIH and DHHS invited applications for milestone-driven preclinical vaccine development projects targeting Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), Salmonella Paratyphi A, and Shigella species, demonstrating the emphasis on advancing research through structured funding.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• The North America preclinical imaging market held the largest share of 46.54% of the global market in 2024, supported by strong research infrastructure, advanced pharmaceutical development, and high levels of public and private investment.
• The preclinical imaging industry in the U.S. is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, driven by the presence of leading biotech firms, extensive academic research networks, and rising demand for advanced imaging technologies.
• By type, the modality segment held the highest market share of 63.87% in 2024, reflecting the widespread use of imaging technologies such as MRI, CT, PET, SPECT, and optical imaging in preclinical research.
• Based on end use, the pharma and biotech companies segment held the highest market share in 2024, owing to increased reliance on imaging tools for drug development, toxicity studies, and therapeutic evaluation.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 1.0 Billion
• 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 1.6 Billion
• CAGR (2025-2033): 5.6%
• North America: Largest market in 2024
• Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Market players are involved in implementing strategic initiatives to hold a prominent share in the market. One key area of focus is continuous innovation through product launches and upgrades. Companies regularly introduce new preclinical imaging systems and technologies that offer enhanced capabilities in imaging resolution, sensitivity, and data analysis. These innovations cater to the evolving needs of researchers and pharmaceutical developers, supporting advancements in drug discovery and disease research. 

Key Players

• Cubresa Inc.
• Bruker Corporation
• Revvity (PerkinElmer, Inc)
• FUJIFILM VisualSonics
• Mediso Ltd.
• Rigaku (MILabs B.V.)
• MR Solutions
• Aspect Imaging
• TriFoil Imaging
• Siemens Healthineers

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Conclusion

The preclinical imaging market is set for continued growth as research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and academic institutions increasingly rely on advanced imaging tools to accelerate drug development and understand disease mechanisms. Rising chronic disease rates and greater emphasis on translational research further enhance the need for high-resolution, non-invasive imaging technologies. Strong government support through grants and structured funding programs continues to promote innovation in early-stage research. With North America leading the market and key segments such as imaging modalities and pharma–biotech end users driving demand, the industry is well positioned for sustained expansion through 2033.