1
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Kayı Cangır A, Güneş SG, Orhan K, Özakıncı H, Kahya Y, Karasoy D, Dizbay Sak S. Microcomputed tomography as a diagnostic tool for detection of lymph node metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer: A decision-support approach for pathological examination "A pilot study for method validation". J Pathol Inform 2024; 15:100373. [PMID: 38633838 PMCID: PMC11022089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients without lymph node (LN) metastases (pN0) may exhibit different survival rates, even when their T stage is similar. This divergence could be attributed to the current pathology practice, wherein LNs are examined solely in two-dimensional (2D). Unfortunately, adhering to the protocols of 2D pathological examination does not ensure the exhaustive sampling of all excised LNs, thereby leaving room for undetected metastatic foci in the unexplored depths of tissues. The employment of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) facilitates a three-dimensional (3D) evaluation of all LNs without compromising sample integrity. In our study, we utilized quantitative micro-CT parameters to appraise the metastatic status of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) LNs. Methods Micro-CT scans were conducted on 12 FFPEs obtained from 8 NSCLC patients with histologically confirmed mediastinal LN metastases. Simultaneously, whole-slide images from these FFPEs underwent scanning, and 47 regions of interest (ROIs) (17 metastatic foci, 11 normal lymphoid tissues, 10 adipose tissues, and 9 anthracofibrosis) were marked on scanned images. Quantitative structural variables obtained via micro-CT analysis from tumoral and non-tumoral ROIs, were analyzed. Result Significant distinctions were observed in linear density, connectivity, connectivity density, and closed porosity between tumoral and non-tumoral ROIs, as indicated by kappa coefficients of 1, 0.90, 1, and 1, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis substantiated the differentiation between tumoral and non-tumoral ROIs based on thickness, linear density, connectivity, connectivity density, and the percentage of closed porosity. Conclusions Quantitative micro-CT parameters demonstrate the ability to distinguish between tumoral and non-tumoral regions of LNs in FFPEs. The discriminatory characteristics of these quantitative micro-CT parameters imply their potential usefulness in developing an artificial intelligence algorithm specifically designed for the 3D identification of LN metastases while preserving the FFPE tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayten Kayı Cangır
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
- Medical Design Application and Research Center (MEDITAM), Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Süleyman Gökalp Güneş
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kaan Orhan
- Department of Dentoaxillofacial Radiology, Ankara University Faculty of Dentistry, and MEDITAM, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hilal Özakıncı
- Department of Pathology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Kahya
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Duru Karasoy
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Serpil Dizbay Sak
- Department of Pathology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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2
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Zhang B, Fu T, Han Y, Li G, Wan X, Li Y. Experimental study of a novel mouse model of tibial shaft fracture combined with blunt chest trauma. Animal Model Exp Med 2024. [PMID: 38225728 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUD Thoracic Trauma and Limb Fractures Are the Two most Common Injuries in Multiple Trauma. However, there Is Still a Lack of Mouse Models of Trauma Combining Tibial Shaft Fracture (TSF) and Thoracic Trauma. In this Study, we Attempted to Develop a Novel Mouse Model of TSF Combined with Blunt Chest Trauma (BCT). METHODS A total of 84 C57BL/6J male mice were used as the multiple trauma model. BCT was induced by hitting the chests of mice with heavy objects, and TSF was induced by hitting the tibia of mice with heavy objects after intramedullary fixation. Serum specimens of mice were received by cardiac puncture at defined time points of 0, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. RESULTS Body weight and body temperature tended to decrease within 24 h after multiple trauma. Hemoglobin analyses revealed a decrease during the first 24 h after multiple trauma. Some animals died by cardiac puncture immediately after chest trauma. These animals exhibited the most severe pulmonary contusion and hemorrhage. The level of lung damage varied in diverse mice but was apparent in all animals. Classic hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained paraffin pulmonary sections of mice with multiple trauma displayed hemorrhage and an immunoinflammatory reaction. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum samples of mice with multiple trauma showed an upregulation of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-1α (TNF-1α) compared with the control group. Microimaging confirmed the presence of a tibia fracture and pulmonary contusion. CONCLUSIONS The novel mouse multiple trauma model established in this study is a common trauma model that shows similar pathological mechanisms and imaging characteristics in patients with multiple injuries. This study is useful for determining whether blockade or intervention of the cytokine response is beneficial for the treatment of patients with multiple trauma. Further research is needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Zhang
- Department of Emergency Intensive Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Fu
- Department of Special Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yi Han
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Gongke Li
- Department of Emergency Intensive Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xianyao Wan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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3
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Schneider B, Kopf KW, Mason E, Dawson M, Coronado Escobar D, Majka SM. Microcomputed tomography visualization and quantitation of the pulmonary arterial microvascular tree in mouse models of chronic lung disease. Pulm Circ 2023; 13:e12279. [PMID: 37645586 PMCID: PMC10461042 DOI: 10.1002/pul2.12279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary vascular dysfunction is characterized by remodeling and loss of microvessels in the lung and is a major manifestation of chronic lung diseases (CLD). In murine models of CLD, the small arterioles and capillaries are the first and most prevalent vessels that are affected by pruning and remodeling. Thus, visualization of the pulmonary arterial vasculature in three dimensions is essential to define pruning and remodeling both temporally and spatially and its role in the pathogenesis of CLD, aging, and tissue repair. To this end, we have developed a novel method to visualize and quantitate the murine pulmonary arterial circulation using microcomputed tomography (µCT) imaging. Using this perfusion technique, we can quantitate microvessels to approximately 6 µM in diameter. We hypothesize that bleomycin-induced injury would have a significant impact on the arterial vascular structure. As proof of principle, we demonstrated that as a result of bleomycin-induced injury at peak fibrosis, significant alterations in arterial vessel structure were visible in the three-dimensional models as well as quantification. Thus, we have successfully developed a perfusion methodology and complementary analysis techniques, which allows for the reconstruction, visualization, and quantitation of the mouse pulmonary arterial microvasculature in three-dimensions. This tool will further support the examination and understanding of angiogenesis during the development of CLD as well as repair following injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Schneider
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Katrina W. Kopf
- Biological Resource CenterNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Emma Mason
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Maggie Dawson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | | | - Susan M. Majka
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell BiologyUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
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4
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Luisi JD, Lin JL, Ochoa LF, McAuley RJ, Tanner MG, Alfarawati O, Wright CW, Vargas G, Motamedi M, Ameredes BT. Semi-automated micro-computed tomography lung segmentation and analysis in mouse models. MethodsX 2023; 10:102198. [PMID: 37152666 PMCID: PMC10154963 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2023.102198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Computed Tomography (CT) is a standard clinical tool utilized to diagnose known lung pathologies based on established grading methods. However, for preclinical trials and toxicity investigations in animal models, more comprehensive datasets are typically needed to determine discriminative features between experimental treatments, which oftentimes require analysis of multiple images and their associated differential quantification using manual segmentation methods. Furthermore, for manual segmentation of image data, three or more readers is the gold standard of analysis, but this requirement can be time-consuming and inefficient, depending on variability due to reader bias. In previous papers, microCT image manual segmentation was a valuable tool for assessment of lung pathology in several animal models; however, the manual segmentation approach and the commercial software used was typically a major rate-limiting step. To improve the efficiency, the semi-manual segmentation method was streamlined, and a semi-automated segmentation process was developed to produce:•Quantifiable segmentations: using manual and semi-automated analysis methods for assessing experimental injury and toxicity models,•Deterministic results and efficiency through automation in an unbiased and parameter free process, thereby reducing reader variance, user time, and increases throughput in data analysis,•Cost-Effectiveness: portable with low computational resource demand, based on a cross-platform open-source ImageJ program.
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5
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Bompoti A, Papazoglou AS, Moysidis DV, Otountzidis N, Karagiannidis E, Stalikas N, Panteris E, Ganesh V, Sanctuary T, Arvanitidis C, Sianos G, Michaelson JS, Herrmann MD. Volumetric Imaging of Lung Tissue at Micrometer Resolution: Clinical Applications of Micro-CT for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Diseases. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11112075. [PMID: 34829422 PMCID: PMC8625264 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is a promising novel medical imaging modality that allows for non-destructive volumetric imaging of surgical tissue specimens at high spatial resolution. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the clinical applications of micro-CT for the tissue-based diagnosis of lung diseases. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews, aiming to include every clinical study reporting on micro-CT imaging of human lung tissues. A literature search yielded 570 candidate articles, out of which 37 were finally included in the review. Of the selected studies, 9 studies explored via micro-CT imaging the morphology and anatomy of normal human lung tissue; 21 studies investigated microanatomic pulmonary alterations due to obstructive or restrictive lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis; and 7 studies examined the utility of micro-CT imaging in assessing lung cancer lesions (n = 4) or in transplantation-related pulmonary alterations (n = 3). The selected studies reported that micro-CT could successfully detect several lung diseases providing three-dimensional images of greater detail and resolution than routine optical slide microscopy, and could additionally provide valuable volumetric insight in both restrictive and obstructive lung diseases. In conclusion, micro-CT-based volumetric measurements and qualitative evaluations of pulmonary tissue structures can be utilized for the clinical management of a variety of lung diseases. With micro-CT devices becoming more accessible, the technology has the potential to establish itself as a core diagnostic imaging modality in pathology and to enable integrated histopathologic and radiologic assessment of lung cancer and other lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreana Bompoti
- Department of Radiology, Peterborough City Hospital, Northwest Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough PE3 9GZ, UK;
| | - Andreas S. Papazoglou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Dimitrios V. Moysidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Nikolaos Otountzidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Efstratios Karagiannidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Nikolaos Stalikas
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Eleftherios Panteris
- Biomic_AUTh, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center B1.4, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd., P.O. Box 8318, GR 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | | | - Thomas Sanctuary
- Respiratory Department, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Kent ME7 5NY, UK;
| | - Christos Arvanitidis
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC), 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
- LifeWatch ERIC, Sector II-II, Plaza de España, 41071 Seville, Spain
| | - Georgios Sianos
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.S.P.); (D.V.M.); (N.O.); (E.K.); (N.S.); (G.S.)
| | - James S. Michaelson
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
| | - Markus D. Herrmann
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +6-17-724-1896
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6
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Chadwick EA, Suzuki T, George MG, Romero DA, Amon C, Waddell TK, Karoubi G, Bazylak A. Vessel network extraction and analysis of mouse pulmonary vasculature via X-ray micro-computed tomographic imaging. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008930. [PMID: 33878108 PMCID: PMC8594947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, non-invasive high-spatial resolution three-dimensional (3D) X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) of healthy mouse lung vasculature is performed. Methodologies are presented for filtering, segmenting, and skeletonizing the collected 3D images. Novel methods for the removal of spurious branch artefacts from the skeletonized 3D image are introduced, and these novel methods involve a combination of distance transform gradients, diameter-length ratios, and the fast marching method (FMM). These new techniques of spurious branch removal result in the consistent removal of spurious branches without compromising the connectivity of the pulmonary circuit. Analysis of the filtered, skeletonized, and segmented 3D images is performed using a newly developed Vessel Network Extraction algorithm to fully characterize the morphology of the mouse pulmonary circuit. The removal of spurious branches from the skeletonized image results in an accurate representation of the pulmonary circuit with significantly less variability in vessel diameter and vessel length in each generation. The branching morphology of a full pulmonary circuit is characterized by the mean diameter per generation and number of vessels per generation. The methods presented in this paper lead to a significant improvement in the characterization of 3D vasculature imaging, allow for automatic separation of arteries and veins, and for the characterization of generations containing capillaries and intrapulmonary arteriovenous anastomoses (IPAVA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A. Chadwick
- Thermofluids for Energy and Advanced Material Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Takaya Suzuki
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Research Laboratories, University Health Network, Princess Margaret Cancer Research Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael G. George
- Thermofluids for Energy and Advanced Material Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David A. Romero
- Advanced Thermal/Fluid Optimization, Modelling, and Simulation (ATOMS) Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cristina Amon
- Advanced Thermal/Fluid Optimization, Modelling, and Simulation (ATOMS) Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas K. Waddell
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Research Laboratories, University Health Network, Princess Margaret Cancer Research Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Golnaz Karoubi
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Research Laboratories, University Health Network, Princess Margaret Cancer Research Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aimy Bazylak
- Thermofluids for Energy and Advanced Material Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Zhu Z, Wang Y, Long A, Feng T, Ocampo M, Chen S, Tang H, Guo Q, Minshall R, Makino A, Huang W, Chen J. Pulmonary vessel casting in a rat model of monocrotaline-mediated pulmonary hypertension. Pulm Circ 2020; 10:2045894020922129. [PMID: 32922742 PMCID: PMC7448137 DOI: 10.1177/2045894020922129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension is a chronic vascular disease characterized by pulmonary vasoconstriction and pulmonary arterial remodeling. Pulmonary arterial remodeling is mainly due to small pulmonary arterial wall thickening and lumen occlusion. Previous studies have described intravascular changes in lung sections using histopathology, but few were able to obtain a fine detailed image of the pulmonary vascular system. In this study, we used Microfil compounds to cast the pulmonary arteries in a rat model of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension. High-quality images that enabled quantification of distal pulmonary arterial branching based on the number of vessel bifurcations/junctions were demonstrated in this model. The branch and junction counts of distal pulmonary arteries significantly decreased in the monocrotaline group compared to the control group, and this effect was inversely proportional to the mean pulmonary artery pressure observed in each group. The patterns of pulmonary vasculature and the methods for pulmonary vessel casting are presented to provide a basis for future studies of pulmonary arterial remodeling due to pulmonary hypertension and other lung diseases that involve the remodeling of vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkai Zhu
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amy Long
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tianyu Feng
- Key Laboratory of Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Maria Ocampo
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sunny Chen
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Haiyang Tang
- Collage of veterinary Medicine, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu, China
| | - Richard Minshall
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ayako Makino
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA The first two authors equally contributed to this manuscript
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiwang Chen
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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8
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Knutsen RH, Gober LM, Sukinik JR, Donahue DR, Kronquist EK, Levin MD, McLean SE, Kozel BA. Vascular Casting of Adult and Early Postnatal Mouse Lungs for Micro-CT Imaging. J Vis Exp 2020. [PMID: 32628170 DOI: 10.3791/61242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels form intricate networks in 3-dimensional space. Consequently, it is difficult to visually appreciate how vascular networks interact and behave by observing the surface of a tissue. This method provides a means to visualize the complex 3-dimensional vascular architecture of the lung. To accomplish this, a catheter is inserted into the pulmonary artery and the vasculature is simultaneously flushed of blood and chemically dilated to limit resistance. Lungs are then inflated through the trachea at a standard pressure and the polymer compound is infused into the vascular bed at a standard flow rate. Once the entire arterial network is filled and allowed to cure, the lung vasculature may be visualized directly or imaged on a micro-CT (µCT) scanner. When performed successfully, one can appreciate the pulmonary arterial network in mice ranging from early postnatal ages to adults. Additionally, while demonstrated in the pulmonary arterial bed, this method can be applied to any vascular bed with optimized catheter placement and endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell H Knutsen
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Leah M Gober
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Joseph R Sukinik
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Danielle R Donahue
- Mouse Imaging Facility, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health
| | - Elise K Kronquist
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Mark D Levin
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Sean E McLean
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Beth A Kozel
- Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health;
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9
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Lachant DJ, Meoli DF, Haight D, Staicu S, Akers S, Glickman S, Ambrosini R, Champion HC, White RJ. Combination therapy improves vascular volume in female rats with pulmonary hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2019; 317:L445-L455. [PMID: 31322432 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00450.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a female predominant disease in which progressive vascular remodeling and vasoconstriction result in right ventricular (RV) failure and death. Most PAH patients utilize multiple therapies. In contrast, the majority of preclinical therapeutic studies are performed in male rats with a single novel drug often markedly reversing disease in the model. We sought to differentiate single drug therapy from combination therapy in female rats with severe disease. One week after left pneumonectomy, we induced PH in young female Sprague-Dawley rats with an injection of monocrotaline (45 mg/kg). Female rats were then randomized to receive combination therapy (ambrisentan plus tadalafil), ambrisentan monotherapy, tadalafil monotherapy, or vehicle. We measured RV size and function on two serial echocardiograms during the development of disease. We measured RV systolic pressure (RVSP) invasively at day 28 after monocrotaline before analyzing the vascular volume with microcomputed tomography (microCT) of the right middle lobe. RVSP was significantly lower in female rats treated with combination therapy, and combination therapy resulted in increased small vessel volume density measured by microCT compared with untreated rats. Combination-treated rats had the smallest RV end-diastolic diameter on echocardiogram as compared with the other groups. In summary, we report a female model of pulmonary hypertension that can distinguish between one and two drug therapies; this model may facilitate better preclinical drug testing for novel compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Lachant
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - David F Meoli
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Deborah Haight
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Serban Staicu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Shanti Akers
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Samuel Glickman
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Robert Ambrosini
- Department of Radiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | | | - R James White
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
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10
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Hochhegger B, Langer FW, Irion K, Souza A, Moreira J, Baldisserotto M, Pallaoro Y, Muller E, Medeiros TM, Altmayer S, Marchiori E. Pulmonary Acinus: Understanding the Computed Tomography Findings from an Acinar Perspective. Lung 2019; 197:259-265. [PMID: 30900014 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-019-00214-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The lung acinus is the most distal portion of the airway responsible for the gas exchange. The normal acini are not visible on conventional computed tomography (CT), but the advent of micro-CT improved the understanding of the microarchitecture of healthy acini. The comprehension of the acinar architecture is pivotal for the understanding of CT findings of diseases that involve the acini. Centriacinar emphysema, for example, presents as round areas of low attenuation due to the destruction of the most central acini with compensatory enlargement of proximal acini due to alveolar wall destruction. In pulmonary fibrosis, intralobular septal fibrosis manifests as acinar wall thickening with an overlap of acinar collapse and compensatory dilation of surrounding acini constituting the cystic disease typical of the usual interstitial pneumonia pattern. This is a state-of-the-art review to describe the acinar structure from the micro-CT perspective and display how the comprehension of the acinar structure can aid in the interpretation of its microarchitecture disruption on conventional CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Hochhegger
- Medical Imaging Research Laboratory, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil. .,Postgraduate program, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil. .,LABIMED - Medical Imaging Research Lab, Department of Radiology, Pavilhão, Pereira Filho Hospital, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Av. Independência, 75, Porto Alegre, 90020-160, Brazil.
| | - Felipe W Langer
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Diagnosis, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Klaus Irion
- Department of Radiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Thomas Dr, Liverpool, L14 3PE, UK
| | - Arthur Souza
- Department of Radiology, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - José Moreira
- Medical Imaging Research Laboratory, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
| | - Matteo Baldisserotto
- Postgraduate program, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Yana Pallaoro
- Medical Imaging Research Laboratory, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
| | - Enrico Muller
- Postgraduate program, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Tassia Machado Medeiros
- Postgraduate program, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Stephan Altmayer
- Medical Imaging Research Laboratory, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
| | - Edson Marchiori
- Department of Radiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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11
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Westcott A, McCormack DG, Parraga G, Ouriadov A. Advanced pulmonary MRI to quantify alveolar and acinar duct abnormalities: Current status and future clinical applications. J Magn Reson Imaging 2019; 50:28-40. [PMID: 30637857 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There are serious clinical gaps in our understanding of chronic lung disease that require novel, sensitive, and noninvasive in vivo measurements of the lung parenchyma to measure disease pathogenesis and progressive changes over time as well as response to treatment. Until recently, our knowledge and appreciation of the tissue changes that accompany lung disease has depended on ex vivo biopsy and concomitant histological and stereological measurements. These measurements have revealed the underlying pathologies that drive lung disease and have provided important observations about airway occlusion, obliteration of the terminal bronchioles and airspace enlargement, or fibrosis and their roles in disease initiation and progression. ex vivo tissue stereology and histology are the established gold standards and, more recently, micro-computed tomography (CT) measurements of ex vivo tissue samples has also been employed to reveal new mechanistic findings about the progression of obstructive lung disease in patients. While these approaches have provided important understandings using ex vivo analysis of excised samples, recently developed hyperpolarized noble gas MRI methods provide an opportunity to noninvasively measure acinar duct and terminal airway dimensions and geometry in vivo, and, without radiation burden. Therefore, in this review we summarize emerging pulmonary MRI morphometry methods that provide noninvasive in vivo measurements of the lung in patients with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, among others. We discuss new findings, future research directions, as well as clinical opportunities to address current gaps in patient care and for testing of new therapies. Level of Evidence: 5 Technical Efficacy: Stage 5 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:28-40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Westcott
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - David G McCormack
- Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Grace Parraga
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Alexei Ouriadov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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12
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Mühlfeld C, Wrede C, Knudsen L, Buchacker T, Ochs M, Grothausmann R. Recent developments in 3-D reconstruction and stereology to study the pulmonary vasculature. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2018; 315:L173-L183. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00541.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations of the pulmonary vasculature are an important feature of human lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary hypertension, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Experimental studies to investigate the pathogenesis or a therapeutic intervention in animal models of these diseases often require robust, meaningful, and efficient morphometric data that allow for appropriate statistical testing. The gold standard for obtaining such data is design-based stereology. However, certain morphological characteristics of the pulmonary vasculature make the implementation of stereological methods challenging. For example, the alveolar capillary network functions according to the sheet flow principle, thus making unbiased length estimations impossible and requiring other strategies to obtain mechanistic morphometric data. Another example is the location of pathological changes along the branches of the vascular tree. For developmental defects like in bronchopulmonary dysplasia or for pulmonary hypertension, it is important to know whether certain segments of the vascular tree are preferentially altered. This cannot be overcome by traditional stereological methods but requires the combination of a three-dimensional data set and stereology. The present review aims at highlighting the great potential while discussing the major challenges (such as time consumption and data volume) of this combined approach. We hope to raise interest in the potential of this approach and thus stimulate solutions to overcome the existing challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mühlfeld
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Christoph Wrede
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Lars Knudsen
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Tobias Buchacker
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Ochs
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Roman Grothausmann
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
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13
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Chaurand P, Liu W, Borschneck D, Levard C, Auffan M, Paul E, Collin B, Kieffer I, Lanone S, Rose J, Perrin J. Multi-scale X-ray computed tomography to detect and localize metal-based nanomaterials in lung tissues of in vivo exposed mice. Sci Rep 2018. [PMID: 29535369 PMCID: PMC5849692 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21862-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In this methodological study, we demonstrated the relevance of 3D imaging performed at various scales for the ex vivo detection and location of cerium oxide nanomaterials (CeO2-NMs) in mouse lung. X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) with a voxel size from 14 µm to 1 µm (micro-CT) was combined with X-ray nano-computed tomography with a voxel size of 63 nm (nano-CT). An optimized protocol was proposed to facilitate the sample preparation, to minimize the experimental artifacts and to optimize the contrast of soft tissues exposed to metal-based nanomaterials (NMs). 3D imaging of the NMs biodistribution in lung tissues was consolidated by combining a vast variety of techniques in a correlative approach: histological observations, 2D chemical mapping and speciation analysis were performed for an unambiguous detection of NMs. This original methodological approach was developed following a worst-case scenario of exposure, i.e. high dose of exposure with administration via intra-tracheal instillation. Results highlighted both (i) the non-uniform distribution of CeO2-NMs within the entire lung lobe (using large field-of-view micro-CT) and (ii) the detection of CeO2-NMs down to the individual cell scale, e.g. macrophage scale (using nano-CT with a voxel size of 63 nm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Perrine Chaurand
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France. .,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France.
| | - Wei Liu
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Daniel Borschneck
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Clément Levard
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Mélanie Auffan
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Emmanuel Paul
- INSERM, Equipe 04, U955, Creteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Creteil, IMRB, Fac Med, DHU A TVB, Creteil, France
| | - Blanche Collin
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Isabelle Kieffer
- OSUG-FAME, UMS 832 CNRS-Univ. Grenoble Alpes, F-38041, Grenoble, France
| | - Sophie Lanone
- INSERM, Equipe 04, U955, Creteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Creteil, IMRB, Fac Med, DHU A TVB, Creteil, France
| | - Jérôme Rose
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,International Consortium for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology iCEINT, CNRS-Duke University, Aix en Provence, France
| | - Jeanne Perrin
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, Coll France, CEREGE, Aix-en-Provence, France.,Univ Avignon, Inst Mediterraneen Biodiversite & Ecol Marine & C, Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, Marseille, France.,AP HM La Conception, CECOS, Lab Reprod Biol, Dept Gynecol Obstet & Reprod Med, Pole Femmes Parents Enfants, Marseille, France
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14
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Pinar IP, Jones HD. Novel imaging approaches for small animal models of lung disease (2017 Grover Conference series). Pulm Circ 2018; 8:2045894018762242. [PMID: 29480066 PMCID: PMC5888832 DOI: 10.1177/2045894018762242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging in small animal models of lung disease is challenging, as existing technologies are limited either by resolution or by the terminal nature of the imaging approach. Here, we describe the current state of small animal lung imaging, the technological advances of laboratory-sourced phase contrast X-ray imaging, and the application of this novel technology and its attendant image analysis techniques to the in vivo imaging of the large airways and pulmonary vasculature in murine models of lung health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac P Pinar
- 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Division of Biological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Heather D Jones
- 3 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Martins de Souza E Silva J, Utsch J, Kimm MA, Allner S, Epple MF, Achterhold K, Pfeiffer F. Dual-energy micro-CT for quantifying the time-course and staining characteristics of ex-vivo animal organs treated with iodine- and gadolinium-based contrast agents. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17387. [PMID: 29234002 PMCID: PMC5727238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17064-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical staining of soft-tissues can be used as a strategy to increase their low inherent contrast in X-ray absorption micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), allowing to obtain fast three-dimensional structural information of animal organs. Though some staining agents are commonly used in this context, little is known about the staining agents' ability to stain specific types of tissues; the times necessary to provide a sufficient contrast; and the effect of staining solution in distorting the tissue. Here we contribute to studies of animal organs (mouse heart and lungs) using staining combined with dual-energy micro-CT (DECT). DECT was used in order to obtain an additional quantitative measure for the amount of staining agents within the sample in 3D maps. Our results show that the two staining solutions used in this work diffuse differently in the tissues studied, the staining times of some tens of minutes already produce high-quality micro-CT images and, at the concentrations applied in this work, the staining solutions tested do not cause relevant tissue distortions. While one staining solution provides images of the general morphology of the organs, the other reveals organs' features in the order of a hundred micrometers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Martins de Souza E Silva
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany.
- Institute of Physics, Martin Luther University, Halle-Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Julian Utsch
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Melanie A Kimm
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675, München, Germany
| | - Sebastian Allner
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Michael F Epple
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Klaus Achterhold
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Franz Pfeiffer
- Chair of Biomedical Physics, Department of Physics and Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675, München, Germany
- Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
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16
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Faight EM, Verdelis K, Zourelias L, Chong R, Benza RL, Shields KJ. MicroCT analysis of vascular morphometry: a comparison of right lung lobes in the SUGEN/hypoxic rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Pulm Circ 2017; 7:522-530. [PMID: 28597764 PMCID: PMC5467946 DOI: 10.1177/2045893217709001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease characterized by significant vascular remodeling within the lung. Clinical computed tomography (CT) scans are routinely used to aid in PAH diagnosis. Animal models, including the Sugen-hypoxic rat model (SU/hyp), of PAH closely mimic human PAH development. We have previously used micro-computed tomography (microCT) to find extensive right lung vascular remodeling in the SU/hyp. We hypothesized that the individual right lung lobes may not contribute equally to overall lung vascular remodeling. Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a subcutaneous injection of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor blocker (Sugen 5416) and subsequently exposed to chronic hypoxic conditions (10% O2) for three weeks. Following perfusion of the lung vasculature with an opaque resin (Microfil), the right lung lobes were microCT-imaged with a 10-µm voxel resolution and 3D morphometry analysis was performed separately on each lobe. As expected, we found a significantly lower ratio of vascular volume to total lobe volume in the SU/hyp compared with the control, but only in the distal lobes (inferior: 0.23 [0.21–0.30] versus 0.35 [0.27–0.43], P = 0.02; accessory: 0.27 [0.25–0.33] versus 0.37 [0.29–0.43], P = 0.06). Overall, we observed significantly fewer continuous blood vessels and reduced vascular density while having greater vascular lumen diameters in the distal lobes of both groups (P < 0.05). In addition, the vascular separation within the SU/hyp lobes and the vascular surface area to volume ratio were significantly greater in the SU/hyp lobes compared with controls (P < 0.03). Results for the examined parameters support the overall extensive vascular remodeling in the SU/hyp model and suggest this may be lobe-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Faight
- 1 Lupus Center of Excellence - Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kostas Verdelis
- 2 Division of Endodontics at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Comprehensive Care and the Department of Oral Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lee Zourelias
- 3 Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rong Chong
- 2 Division of Endodontics at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Comprehensive Care and the Department of Oral Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Raymond L Benza
- 3 Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelly J Shields
- 1 Lupus Center of Excellence - Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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17
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Samarage CR, Carnibella R, Preissner M, Jones HD, Pearson JT, Fouras A, Dubsky S. Technical Note: Contrast free angiography of the pulmonary vasculature in live mice using a laboratory x-ray source. Med Phys 2017; 43:6017. [PMID: 27806595 PMCID: PMC5074996 DOI: 10.1118/1.4964794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: In vivo imaging of the pulmonary vasculature in small animals is difficult yet highly desirable in order to allow study of the effects of a host of dynamic biological processes such as hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. Here the authors present an approach for the quantification of changes in the vasculature. Methods: A contrast free angiography technique is validated in silico through the use of computer-generated images and in vivo through microcomputed tomography (μCT) of live mice conducted using a laboratory-based x-ray source. Subsequent image processing on μCT data allowed for the quantification of the caliber of pulmonary vasculature without the need for external contrast agents. These measures were validated by comparing with quantitative contrast microangiography in the same mice. Results: Quantification of arterial diameters from the method proposed in this study is validated against laboratory-based x-ray contrast microangiography. The authors find that there is a high degree of correlation (R = 0.91) between measures from microangiography and their contrast free method. Conclusions: A technique for quantification of murine pulmonary vasculature without the need for contrast is presented. As such, this technique could be applied for longitudinal studies of animals to study changes to vasculature without the risk of premature death in sensitive mouse models of disease. This approach may also be of value in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Carnibella
- 4Dx Limited, Melbourne 3000, Australia and Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Melissa Preissner
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Heather D Jones
- Department of Medicine and the Women's Guild Lung Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048
| | - James T Pearson
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia; and Australian Synchrotron, Melbourne 3168, Australia
| | - Andreas Fouras
- 4Dx Limited, Melbourne 3000, Australia and Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Stephen Dubsky
- 4Dx Limited, Melbourne 3000, Australia and Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
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18
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Abstract
Modern imaging technology, now utilized in most biomedical research areas (bioimaging), enables the detection and visualization of biological processes at various levels of the molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ and/or whole body. In toxicologic pathology, the impact of modern imaging technology is becoming apparent from digital histopathology to novel molecular imaging for in vivo studies. This overview summarizes recent progresses in digital microscopy imaging and newly developed digital slide techniques. Applications of virtual microscopy imaging are discussed and compared to traditional optical microscopy reading. New generation digital pathology approaches, including automatic slide inspection, digital slide databases and image management are briefly introduced. Commonly used in vivo preclinical imaging technologies are also summarized. While most of these new imaging techniques are still undergoing rapid development, it is important that toxicologic pathologists embrace and utilize these technologies as advances occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyou Ying
- Drug Safety Evaluation, sanofi-aventis, Bridgewater, New Jersey 08807-0800, USA.
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19
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Kizhakke Puliyakote AS, Vasilescu DM, Sen Sharma K, Wang G, Hoffman EA. A skeleton-tree-based approach to acinar morphometric analysis using microcomputed tomography with comparison of acini in young and old C57BL/6 mice. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2016; 120:1402-9. [PMID: 26940656 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00923.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We seek to establish a method using interior tomographic techniques (Xradia MicroXCT-400) for acinar morphometric analysis using the pathway center lines from micro X-ray computed tomographic (Micro-CT) images as the road map. Through the application of these techniques, we present a method to extend the atlas of murine lungs to acinar levels and present a comparison between two age groups of the C57BL/6 strain. Lungs fixed via vascular perfusion were scanned using high-resolution Micro-CT protocols. Individual acini were segmented, and skeletonized paths to alveolar sacs from the entrance to the acinus were formed. Morphometric parameters, including branch lengths, diameters, and branching angles, were generated. Six mice each, at two age groups (∼20 and ∼90 wk of age), were studied. Additive Gaussian noise (0 mean and SD 1, 2, 5, and 10) was used to test the robustness of the analytical method. Noise-based variations were within ±6 μm for branch lengths and ±5 μm for diameters. At a noise level of 10, errors increased. Branch diameters were less susceptible to noise than lengths. There was >95% center line overlap across all noise levels. The measurements obtained using the center lines as a road map were not affected by added noise. Acini from younger mice had smaller branch diameters and lengths at all generations without significant differences in branching angles. The relative distribution of volume in the alveolar ducts was similar across both age groups. The method has been demonstrated to be repeatable and robust to image noise and provides a new, nondestructive technique to assess and compare acinar morphometry quantitatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhilash S Kizhakke Puliyakote
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | | | - Kriti Sen Sharma
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia; and
| | - Ge Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia; and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Eric A Hoffman
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Department of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa;
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20
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Clark DP, Badea CT. Micro-CT of rodents: state-of-the-art and future perspectives. Phys Med 2014; 30:619-34. [PMID: 24974176 PMCID: PMC4138257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2014.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Micron-scale computed tomography (micro-CT) is an essential tool for phenotyping and for elucidating diseases and their therapies. This work is focused on preclinical micro-CT imaging, reviewing relevant principles, technologies, and applications. Commonly, micro-CT provides high-resolution anatomic information, either on its own or in conjunction with lower-resolution functional imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). More recently, however, advanced applications of micro-CT produce functional information by translating clinical applications to model systems (e.g., measuring cardiac functional metrics) and by pioneering new ones (e.g. measuring tumor vascular permeability with nanoparticle contrast agents). The primary limitations of micro-CT imaging are the associated radiation dose and relatively poor soft tissue contrast. We review several image reconstruction strategies based on iterative, statistical, and gradient sparsity regularization, demonstrating that high image quality is achievable with low radiation dose given ever more powerful computational resources. We also review two contrast mechanisms under intense development. The first is spectral contrast for quantitative material discrimination in combination with passive or actively targeted nanoparticle contrast agents. The second is phase contrast which measures refraction in biological tissues for improved contrast and potentially reduced radiation dose relative to standard absorption imaging. These technological advancements promise to develop micro-CT into a commonplace, functional and even molecular imaging modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Clark
- Center for In Vivo Microscopy, Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3302, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - C T Badea
- Center for In Vivo Microscopy, Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3302, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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21
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Quantitative analysis of bone and soft tissue by micro-computed tomography: applications to ex vivo and in vivo studies. BONEKEY REPORTS 2014; 3:564. [PMID: 25184037 DOI: 10.1038/bonekey.2014.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is a high-resolution imaging modality that is capable of analysing bone structure with a voxel size on the order of 10 μm. With the development of in vivo micro-CT, where disease progression and treatment can be monitored in a living animal over a period of time, this modality has become a standard tool for preclinical assessment of bone architecture during disease progression and treatment. For meaningful comparison between micro-CT studies, it is essential that the same parameters for data acquisition and analysis methods be used. This protocol outlines the common procedures that are currently used for sample preparation, scanning, reconstruction and analysis in micro-CT studies. Scan and analysis methods for trabecular and cortical bone are covered for the femur, tibia, vertebra and the full neonate body of small rodents. The analysis procedures using the software provided by ScancoMedical and Bruker are discussed, and the routinely used bone architectural parameters are outlined. This protocol also provides a section dedicated to in vivo scanning and analysis, which covers the topics of anaesthesia, radiation dose and image registration. Because of the expanding research using micro-CT to study other skeletal sites, as well as soft tissues, we also provide a review of current techniques to examine the skull and mandible, adipose tissue, vasculature, tumour severity and cartilage. Lists of recommended further reading and literature references are included to provide the reader with more detail on the methods described.
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Dunmore-Buyze PJ, Tate E, Xiang FL, Detombe SA, Nong Z, Pickering JG, Drangova M. Three-dimensional imaging of the mouse heart and vasculature using micro-CT and whole-body perfusion of iodine or phosphotungstic acid. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2014; 9:383-90. [PMID: 24764151 DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have investigated histological staining compounds as micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) contrast agents, delivered by soaking tissue specimens in stain and relying on passive diffusion for agent uptake. This study describes a perfusion approach using iodine or phosphotungstic acid (PTA) stains, delivered to an intact mouse, to capitalize on the microvasculature as a delivery conduit for parenchymal staining and direct contact for staining artery walls. Twelve C57BL/6 mice, arterially perfused with either 25% Lugol's solution or 5% PTA solution were scanned intact and reconstructed with 26 µm isotropic voxels. The animals were fixed and the heart and surrounding vessels were excised, embedded and scanned; isolated heart images were reconstructed with 13 µm isotropic voxels. Myocardial enhancement and artery diameters were measured. Both stains successfully enhanced the myocardium and vessel walls. Interestingly, Lugol's solution provided a significantly higher enhancement of the myocardium than PTA [2502 ± 437 vs 656 ± 178 Hounsfield units (HU); p < 0.0001], delineating myofiber architecture and orientation. There was no significant difference in vessel wall enhancement (Lugol's, 1036 ± 635 HU; PTA, 738 ± 124 HU; p = 0.29), but coronary arteries were more effectively segmented from the PTA-stained hearts, enabling segmented imaging of fifth- order coronary artery branches. The combination of whole mouse perfusion delivery and use of heavy metal-containing stains affords high-resolution imaging of the mouse heart and vasculature by micro-CT. The differential imaging patterns of Lugol's- and PTA-stained tissues reveals new opportunities for micro-analyses of cardiac and vascular tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Joy Dunmore-Buyze
- Robarts Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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Abdul Razak HR, Shaffiq Said Rahmat SM, Md Saad WM. Effects of different tube potentials and iodine concentrations on image enhancement, contrast-to-noise ratio and noise in micro-CT images: a phantom study. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2013; 3:256-61. [PMID: 24273743 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2223-4292.2013.10.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the effects of different tube potentials and concentrations of iodinated contrast media (CM) on the image enhancement, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and noise in micro-computed tomography (µCT) images. A phantom containing of five polyethylene tube was filled with 2 mL of deionized water and iodinated CM (Omnipaque 300 mgI/mL) at four different concentrations: 5, 10, 15, and 20 mol/L, respectively. The phantom was scanned with a µCT machine (SkyScan 1176) using various tube potentials: 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90 kVp, a fixed tube current; 100 µA, and filtration of 0.2 mm aluminum (Al). The percentage difference of image enhancement, CNR and noise of all images, acquired at different kVps and concentrations, were calculated. The image enhancement, CNR and noise curves with respect to tube potential and concentration were plotted and analysed. The highest image enhancement was found at the lowest tube potential of 40 kVp. At this kVp setting, the percentage difference of image enhancement [Hounsfield Unit (HU) of 20 mol/L iodine concentration over HU of deionized water] was 43%. By increasing the tube potential, it resulted with the reduction of HU, where only 17.5% different were noticed for 90 kVp. Across all iodine concentrations (5-20 M), CNR peaked at 80 kVp and then these values showed a slight decreasing pattern, which might be due insufficient tube current compensation. The percentage difference of image noise obtained at 40 and 90 kVp was 72.4%. Lower tube potential setting results in higher image enhancement (HU) in conjunction with increasing concentration of iodinated CM. Overall, the tube potential increment will substantially improve CNR and reduce image noise.
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Townsley MI. Structure and composition of pulmonary arteries, capillaries, and veins. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:675-709. [PMID: 23606929 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The pulmonary vasculature comprises three anatomic compartments connected in series: the arterial tree, an extensive capillary bed, and the venular tree. Although, in general, this vasculature is thin-walled, structure is nonetheless complex. Contributions to structure (and thus potentially to function) from cells other than endothelial and smooth muscle cells as well as those from the extracellular matrix should be considered. This review is multifaceted, bringing together information regarding (i) classification of pulmonary vessels, (ii) branching geometry in the pulmonary vascular tree, (iii) a quantitative view of structure based on morphometry of the vascular wall, (iv) the relationship of nerves, a variety of interstitial cells, matrix proteins, and striated myocytes to smooth muscle and endothelium in the vascular wall, (v) heterogeneity within cell populations and between vascular compartments, (vi) homo- and heterotypic cell-cell junctional complexes, and (vii) the relation of the pulmonary vasculature to that of airways. These issues for pulmonary vascular structure are compared, when data is available, across species from human to mouse and shrew. Data from studies utilizing vascular casting, light and electron microscopy, as well as models developed from those data, are discussed. Finally, the need for rigorous quantitative approaches to study of vascular structure in lung is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary I Townsley
- University of South Alabama, Department of Physiology, and Center for Lung Biology, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
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Mendoza A, Gharpure R, Dennis J, Webster JD, Smedley J, Khanna C. A novel noninvasive method for evaluating experimental lung metastasis in mice. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2013; 52:584-589. [PMID: 24041215 PMCID: PMC3784665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis remains the most significant problem in the field of cancer. The biologic complexity that characterizes metastasis requires relevant in vivo models. When using murine models for pulmonary metastasis, longitudinal studies are valuable for following the progression of metastatic burden. Currently, the progression of pulmonary metastatic burden in experimental mice over time is monitored through advanced imaging approaches or the clinical assessment of morbidity. Because clinical signs of morbidity are often vague and unpredictable, an inexpensive and reproducible method to detect advanced metastatic burden-before the development of mortality-is needed. We have developed a noninvasive technique for assessing pulmonary metastatic burden in laboratory mice. The pulmonary assessment of advanced metastasis (PAAM) test is performed by restraining an awake mouse and gently applying pressure with the index finger under the xiphoid process. This pressure reduces the diaphragmatic component to respiration. Mice with advanced lung metastases show transient signs of respiratory distress within 3 s of the application of this pressure. Using PAAM in 4 distinct models (including sarcoma and mammary carcinoma histologies) of experimental (tail vein) pulmonary metastasis (n = 114 mice), among 3 independent evaluators yielded 94% positive and negative predictive values, which were validated by histologic assessment of postmortem lung tissue. PAAM is a simple, reproducible, and efficient method to assist in the detection of advanced pulmonary metastasis in mice and contributes to their humane care during longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnulfo Mendoza
- Tumor and Metastasis Biology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch and
| | - Radhika Gharpure
- Tumor and Metastasis Biology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch and
| | - John Dennis
- SAIC-Frederick Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joshua D Webster
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jeremy Smedley
- SAIC-Frederick Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Chand Khanna
- Tumor and Metastasis Biology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch and
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26
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Counter WB, Wang IQ, Farncombe TH, Labiris NR. Airway and pulmonary vascular measurements using contrast-enhanced micro-CT in rodents. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2013; 304:L831-43. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00281.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical imaging allows pulmonary researchers to study lung disease and pulmonary drug delivery noninvasively and longitudinally in small animals. However, anatomically localizing a pathology or drug deposition to a particular lung region is not easily done. Thus, a detailed knowledge of the anatomical structure of small animal lungs is necessary for understanding disease progression and in addition would facilitate the analysis of the imaging data, mapping drug deposition and relating function to structure. In this study, contrast-enhanced micro-computed tomography (CT) of the lung produced high-resolution images that allowed for the characterization of the rodent airway and pulmonary vasculature. Contrast-enhanced micro-CT was used to visualize the airways and pulmonary vasculature in Sprague-Dawley rats (200–225 g) and BALB/c mice (20–25 g) postmortem. Segmented volumes from these images were processed to yield automated measurements of the airways and pulmonary vasculature. The diameters, lengths, and branching angles of the airway, arterial, and venous trees were measured and analyzed as a function of generation number and vessel diameter to establish rules that could be applied at all levels of tree hierarchy. In the rat, airway, arterial, and venous tress were measured down to the 20th, 16th, and 14th generation, respectively. In the mouse, airway, arterial, and venous trees were measured down to the 16th, 8th, and 7th generation, respectively. This structural information, catalogued in a rodent database, will increase our understanding of lung structure and will aid in future studies of the relationship between structure and function in animal models of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. B. Counter
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - I. Q. Wang
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - T. H. Farncombe
- Department of Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; and
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - N. R. Labiris
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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27
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Unglert CI, Namati E, Warger WC, Liu L, Yoo H, Kang D, Bouma BE, Tearney GJ. Evaluation of optical reflectance techniques for imaging of alveolar structure. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2012; 17:071303. [PMID: 22894464 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.17.7.071303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3-D) visualization of the fine structures within the lung parenchyma could advance our understanding of alveolar physiology and pathophysiology. Current knowledge has been primarily based on histology, but it is a destructive two-dimensional (2-D) technique that is limited by tissue processing artifacts. Micro-CT provides high-resolution three-dimensional (3-D) imaging within a limited sample size, but is not applicable to intact lungs from larger animals or humans. Optical reflectance techniques offer the promise to visualize alveolar regions of the large animal or human lung with sub-cellular resolution in three dimensions. Here, we present the capabilities of three optical reflectance techniques, namely optical frequency domain imaging, spectrally encoded confocal microscopy, and full field optical coherence microscopy, to visualize both gross architecture as well as cellular detail in fixed, phosphate buffered saline-immersed rat lung tissue. Images from all techniques were correlated to each other and then to corresponding histology. Spatial and temporal resolution, imaging depth, and suitability for in vivo probe development were compared to highlight the merits and limitations of each technology for studying respiratory physiology at the alveolar level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin I Unglert
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, 40 Parkman Street, RSL 160, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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Reichard JD, Kunz TH, Keller C, Prajapati SI. Vascular Contrast Enhanced Micro-CT Imaging of “Radiators” in the Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat (Tadarida Brasiliensis). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2012; 295:563-6. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.22423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Wang H, Stout DB, Chatziioannou AF. Estimation of mouse organ locations through registration of a statistical mouse atlas with micro-CT images. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2012; 31:88-102. [PMID: 21859613 PMCID: PMC3267384 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2011.2165294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Micro-CT is widely used in preclinical studies of small animals. Due to the low soft-tissue contrast in typical studies, segmentation of soft tissue organs from noncontrast enhanced micro-CT images is a challenging problem. Here, we propose an atlas-based approach for estimating the major organs in mouse micro-CT images. A statistical atlas of major trunk organs was constructed based on 45 training subjects. The statistical shape model technique was used to include inter-subject anatomical variations. The shape correlations between different organs were described using a conditional Gaussian model. For registration, first the high-contrast organs in micro-CT images were registered by fitting the statistical shape model, while the low-contrast organs were subsequently estimated from the high-contrast organs using the conditional Gaussian model. The registration accuracy was validated based on 23 noncontrast-enhanced and 45 contrast-enhanced micro-CT images. Three different accuracy metrics (Dice coefficient, organ volume recovery coefficient, and surface distance) were used for evaluation. The Dice coefficients vary from 0.45 ± 0.18 for the spleen to 0.90 ± 0.02 for the lungs, the volume recovery coefficients vary from 0.96 ± 0.10 for the liver to 1.30 ± 0.75 for the spleen, the surface distances vary from 0.18 ± 0.01 mm for the lungs to 0.72 ± 0.42 mm for the spleen. The registration accuracy of the statistical atlas was compared with two publicly available single-subject mouse atlases, i.e., the MOBY phantom and the DIGIMOUSE atlas, and the results proved that the statistical atlas is more accurate than the single atlases. To evaluate the influence of the training subject size, different numbers of training subjects were used for atlas construction and registration. The results showed an improvement of the registration accuracy when more training subjects were used for the atlas construction. The statistical atlas-based registration was also compared with the thin-plate spline based deformable registration, commonly used in mouse atlas registration. The results revealed that the statistical atlas has the advantage of improving the estimation of low-contrast organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongkai Wang
- Crump Institute of Molecular Imaging, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90066 USA
| | - David B. Stout
- Crump Institute of Molecular Imaging, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90066 USA
| | - Arion F. Chatziioannou
- Crump Institute of Molecular Imaging, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90066 USA
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30
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Vasilescu DM, Knudsen L, Ochs M, Weibel ER, Hoffman EA. Optimized murine lung preparation for detailed structural evaluation via micro-computed tomography. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2011; 112:159-66. [PMID: 21817110 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00550.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Utilizing micro-X-ray CT (μCT) imaging, we sought to generate an atlas of in vivo and intact/ex vivo lungs from normal murine strains. In vivo imaging allows visualization of parenchymal density and small airways (15-28 μm/voxel). Ex vivo imaging of the intact lung via μCT allows for improved understanding of the three-dimensional lung architecture at the alveolar level with voxel dimensions of 1-2 μm. μCT requires that air spaces remain air-filled to detect alveolar architecture while in vivo structural geometry of the lungs is maintained. To achieve these requirements, a fixation and imaging methodology that permits nondestructive whole lung ex vivo μCT imaging has been implemented and tested. After in vivo imaging, lungs from supine anesthetized C57Bl/6 mice, at 15, 20, and 25 cmH(2)O airway pressure, were fixed in situ via vascular perfusion using a two-stage flushing system while held at 20 cmH(2)O airway pressure. Extracted fixed lungs were air-dried. Whole lung volume was acquired at 1, 7, 21, and >70 days after the lungs were dried and served as validation for fixation stability. No significant shrinkage was observed: +8.95% change from in vivo to fixed lung (P = 0.12), -1.47% change from day 1 to day 7 (P = 0.07), -2.51% change from day 1 to day 21 (P = 0.05), and -4.90% change from day 1 to day 70 and thereafter (P = 0.04). μCT evaluation showed well-fixed alveoli and capillary beds correlating with histological analysis. A fixation and imaging method has been established for μCT imaging of the murine lung that allows for ex vivo morphometric analysis, representative of the in vivo lung.
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32
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Jin GY, Bok SM, Han YM, Chung MJ, Yoon KH, Kim SR, Lee YC. Effectiveness of rosiglitazone on bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis: Assessed by micro-computed tomography and pathologic scores. Eur J Radiol 2011; 81:1901-6. [PMID: 21296518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2010.12.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/28/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) agonists exhibit potent anti-fibrotic effects in the lung and other tissues. Recently, micro-computed tomography (CT) has been a useful tool for the investigation of lung diseases in small animals and is now increasingly applied to visualize and quantify the pulmonary structures. However, there is little information on the assessment for therapeutic effects of PPARγ agonists on the pulmonary fibrosis in mice using micro-CT. This study was aimed to determine the capability of micro-CT in examining the effects of rosiglitazone on pulmonary fibrosis. We used a murine model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis to evaluate the feasibility of micro-CT in evaluating the therapeutic potential of rosiglitazone on pulmonary fibrosis, comparing with pathologic scores. On micro-CT findings, ground glass opacity (80%) and consolidation (20%) were observed predominantly at 3 weeks after the instillation of bleomycin, and the radiologic features became more complex at 6 weeks. In bleomycin-instilled mice treated with rosiglitazone, the majority (80%) showed normal lung features on micro-CT. Radiological-pathologic correlation analyses revealed that ground glass opacity and consolidation were correlated closely with acute inflammation, while reticular opacity was well correlated with histological honeycomb appearance. These results demonstrate that rosiglitazone displays a protective effect on pulmonary fibrosis in mice and that the visualization of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis using micro-CT is satisfactory to assess the effects of rosiglitazone. It implies that micro-CT can be applied to evaluate therapeutic efficacies of a variety of candidate drugs for lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong Yong Jin
- Department of Radiology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
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Hann CR, Bentley MD, Vercnocke A, Ritman EL, Fautsch MP. Imaging the aqueous humor outflow pathway in human eyes by three-dimensional micro-computed tomography (3D micro-CT). Exp Eye Res 2010; 92:104-11. [PMID: 21187085 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2010.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 12/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The site of outflow resistance leading to elevated intraocular pressure in primary open-angle glaucoma is believed to be located in the region of Schlemm's canal inner wall endothelium, its basement membrane and the adjacent juxtacanalicular tissue. Evidence also suggests collector channels and intrascleral vessels may have a role in intraocular pressure in both normal and glaucoma eyes. Traditional imaging modalities limit the ability to view both proximal and distal portions of the trabecular outflow pathway as a single unit. In this study, we examined the effectiveness of three-dimensional micro-computed tomography (3D micro-CT) as a potential method to view the trabecular outflow pathway. Two normal human eyes were used: one immersion fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and one with anterior chamber perfusion at 10 mmHg followed by perfusion fixation in 4% paraformaldehyde/2% glutaraldehyde. Both eyes were postfixed in 1% osmium tetroxide and scanned with 3D micro-CT at 2 μm or 5 μm voxel resolution. In the immersion fixed eye, 24 collector channels were identified with an average orifice size of 27.5 ± 5 μm. In comparison, the perfusion fixed eye had 29 collector channels with a mean orifice size of 40.5 ± 13 μm. Collector channels were not evenly dispersed around the circumference of the eye. There was no significant difference in the length of Schlemm's canal in the immersed versus the perfused eye (33.2 versus 35.1 mm). Structures, locations and size measurements identified by 3D micro-CT were confirmed by correlative light microscopy. These findings confirm 3D micro-CT can be used effectively for the non-invasive examination of the trabecular meshwork, Schlemm's canal, collector channels and intrascleral vasculature that comprise the distal outflow pathway. This imaging modality will be useful for non-invasive study of the role of the trabecular outflow pathway as a whole unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl R Hann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Thiesse J, Namati E, Sieren JC, Smith AR, Reinhardt JM, Hoffman EA, McLennan G. Lung structure phenotype variation in inbred mouse strains revealed through in vivo micro-CT imaging. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2010; 109:1960-8. [PMID: 20671036 PMCID: PMC3006419 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01322.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2009] [Accepted: 07/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Within pulmonary research, the development of mouse models has provided insight into disease development, progression, and treatment. Structural phenotypes of the lung in healthy inbred mouse strains are necessary for comparison to disease models. To date, progress in the assessment of lung function in these small animals using whole lung function tests has been made. However, assessment of in vivo lung structure of inbred mouse strains has yet to be well defined. Therefore, the link between the structure and function phenotypes is still unclear. With advancements in small animal imaging it is now possible to investigate lung structures such as the central and peripheral airways, whole lung, and lobar volumes of mice in vivo, through the use of micro-CT imaging. In this study, we performed in vivo micro-CT imaging of the C57BL/6, A/J, and BALB/c mouse strains using the intermittent iso-pressure breath hold (IIBH) technique. The resulting high-resolution images were used to extract lung structure phenotypes. The three-dimensional lobar structures and airways were defined and a meaningful mouse airway nomenclature was developed. In addition, using these techniques we have uncovered significant differences in the airway structures between inbred mouse strains in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Thiesse
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Metzke RW, Runck H, Stahl CA, Schillinger B, Calzada E, Mühlbauer M, Schulz M, Schneider M, Priebe HJ, Wall WA, Guttmann J. Neutron computed tomography of rat lungs. Phys Med Biol 2010; 56:N1-N10. [DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/56/1/n01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Kagadis GC, Loudos G, Katsanos K, Langer SG, Nikiforidis GC. In vivosmall animal imaging: Current status and future prospects. Med Phys 2010; 37:6421-42. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3515456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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High-speed single-breath-hold micro-computed tomography of thoracic and abdominal structures in mice using a simplified method for intubation. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2010; 34:783-90. [PMID: 20861787 DOI: 10.1097/rct.0b013e3181e1050a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Respiratory gating with and without controlled ventilation has been applied for in vivo micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) of thoracic and abdominal structures in mice. We describe a simplified method for intubation and demonstrate its applicability for single-breath-hold micro-CT in mice. METHODS Mice (n = 10) were anesthetized, intubated, ventilated, and relaxed by intraperitoneal administration of rocuronium. Contrast-enhanced micro-CT of the complete thorax including the upper abdominal organs (80 kV; 37.5 μA; 190-degree rotation; 600 projections/20 seconds or 1200 projections/40 seconds; 39 × 39 × 50-μm voxel size) was performed with and without single-breath-hold technique. RESULTS The simplified method of intubation was fast (<1 minute) and required no special hardware in all mice. Relaxation of mice allowed prolonged single-breath-hold imaging of up to 40 seconds. Diameter of smallest identifiable lung vessels was 100 μm. CONCLUSIONS The presented simplified method for intubation in mice is fast, safe, and effective. Additional relaxation allowed high-resolution single-breath-hold micro-CT in mice.
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Zagorchev L, Oses P, Zhuang ZW, Moodie K, Mulligan-Kehoe MJ, Simons M, Couffinhal T. Micro computed tomography for vascular exploration. JOURNAL OF ANGIOGENESIS RESEARCH 2010; 2:7. [PMID: 20298533 PMCID: PMC2841094 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2384-2-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Vascular exploration of small animals requires imaging hardware with a very high spatial resolution, capable of differentiating large as well as small vessels, in both in vivo and ex vivo studies. Micro Computed Tomography (micro-CT) has emerged in recent years as the preferred modality for this purpose, providing high resolution 3D volumetric data suitable for analysis, quantification, validation, and visualization of results. The usefulness of micro-CT, however, can be adversely affected by a range of factors including physical animal preparation, numerical quantification, visualization of results, and quantification software with limited possibilities. Exacerbating these inherent difficulties is the lack of a unified standard for micro-CT imaging. Most micro-CT today is aimed at particular applications and the software tools needed for quantification, developed mainly by imaging hardware manufacturers, lack the level of detail needed to address more specific aims. This review highlights the capabilities of micro-CT for vascular exploration, describes the current state of imaging protocols, and offers guidelines and suggestions aimed at making micro-CT more accurate, replicable, and robust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyubomir Zagorchev
- Inserm U828, Plateforme d'Innovation Biotechnologique de Xavier Arnozan, Université Victor Ségalen, Bordeaux 2, Pessac, France
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Abstract
Radiosurgery involves the precise delivery of sharply collimated high-energy beams of radiation to a distinct target volume along selected trajectories. Historically, accurate targeting required the application of a stereotactic frame, thus limiting the use of this procedure to single treatments of selected intracranial lesions. However, the scope of radiosurgery has undergone a remarkable broadening since the introduction of image-guided robotic radiosurgery. Recent developments in real-time image guidance provide an effective frameless alternative to conventional radiosurgery and allow both the treatment of lesions outside the skull and the possibility of performing hypofractionation. As a consequence, targets in the spine, chest and abdomen can now also be radiosurgically ablated with submillimetric precision. Meanwhile, the combination of image guidance, robotic beam delivery, and non-isocentric inverse planning can greatly enhance the conformality and homogeneity of radiosurgery. The aim of this article is to describe the technological basis of image-guided radiosurgery and provide a perspective on future developments. The current clinical usage of robotic radiosurgery will be reviewed with an emphasis on those applications that may represent a major shift in the therapeutic paradigm.
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Kamenz C, Weidemann G. Heavy metal—A contrasting substance for micro-tomographical visualization of scorpion book lungs. Micron 2009; 40:911-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2009.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2008] [Revised: 05/14/2009] [Accepted: 05/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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41
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Oses P, Renault MA, Chauvel R, Leroux L, Allières C, Séguy B, Lamazière JMD, Dufourcq P, Couffinhal T, Duplàa C. Mapping 3-dimensional neovessel organization steps using micro-computed tomography in a murine model of hindlimb ischemia-brief report. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2009; 29:2090-2. [PMID: 19745199 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.109.192732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Studying the mechanisms of neovascularization and evaluating the effects of proangiogenic strategies require accurate analysis of the neovascular network. We sought to evaluate the contribution of the microcomputed tomography (mCT) providing high-resolution 3-dimensional (3D) structural data, to a better comprehension of the well-studied mouse hindlimb postischemic neovascularization. METHODS AND RESULTS We showed a predominant arteriogenesis process in the thigh and a predominant angiogenesis-related process in the tibiofibular region, in response to ischemia during the first 15 days. After 15 days, mCT quantitative analysis reveals a remodeling of arterial neovessels and a regression depending on the restoration of the blood flow. We provided also new mCT data on the rapid and potent angiogenic effects of mesenchymal stem cell therapy on vessel formation and organization. We discussed the contribution of this technique compared with or in addition to data generated by the more conventional approaches. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that optimized mCT is a robust method for providing new insights into the 3D understanding of postischemic vessel formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Oses
- Inserm U828, Pessac, Université Victor Ségalen, Bordeaux, France
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42
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Lee JA, Jin GY, Bok SM, Han YM, Park SJ, Lee YC, Chung MJ, Youn GH. Utility of Micro CT in a Murine Model of Bleomycin-Induced Lung Fibrosis. Tuberc Respir Dis (Seoul) 2009. [DOI: 10.4046/trd.2009.67.5.436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jae A Lee
- Department of Radiology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Gong Yong Jin
- Department of Radiology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Center for Pulmonary Disorders, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Se Mi Bok
- Department of Radiology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Young Min Han
- Department of Radiology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Seoung Ju Park
- Research Center for Pulmonary Disorders, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Yong Chul Lee
- Research Center for Pulmonary Disorders, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Myung Ja Chung
- Research Center for Pulmonary Disorders, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Gun Ha Youn
- Department of Radiology, Iksan Hospital, Iksan, Korea
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Badea CT, Drangova M, Holdsworth DW, Johnson GA. In vivo small-animal imaging using micro-CT and digital subtraction angiography. Phys Med Biol 2008; 53:R319-50. [PMID: 18758005 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/53/19/r01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Small-animal imaging has a critical role in phenotyping, drug discovery and in providing a basic understanding of mechanisms of disease. Translating imaging methods from humans to small animals is not an easy task. The purpose of this work is to review in vivo x-ray based small-animal imaging, with a focus on in vivo micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA). We present the principles, technologies, image quality parameters and types of applications. We show that both methods can be used not only to provide morphological, but also functional information, such as cardiac function estimation or perfusion. Compared to other modalities, x-ray based imaging is usually regarded as being able to provide higher throughput at lower cost and adequate resolution. The limitations are usually associated with the relatively poor contrast mechanisms and potential radiation damage due to ionizing radiation, although the use of contrast agents and careful design of studies can address these limitations. We hope that the information will effectively address how x-ray based imaging can be exploited for successful in vivo preclinical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- C T Badea
- Center for In Vivo Microscopy, Department of Radiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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44
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Johnson EM, Price RE, Kurie JM, Rivera BS, Cody DD. A new method for respiratory gating during microcomputed tomography of lung in mice. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2008; 47:46-56. [PMID: 18702451 PMCID: PMC2694711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2007] [Revised: 12/19/2007] [Accepted: 04/02/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the use of regulated cyclic breath-holds to improve microcomputed tomography (microCT) imaging of small (diameter, less than 1 mm) mouse lung tumors in vivo. Two novel techniques that use a modified small-animal ventilator were examined and compared with a previously used respiratory gating microCT technique and a free-breathing microCT technique. Two mice were scanned with each of these 4 microCT techniques (voxel size, 92 microm). The appearance of small lung tumors (maximal diameter, 0.5 to 1.0 mm) and the characteristics of line profiles of the lung-diaphragm boundary were used to compare the images obtained from the 4 acquisition techniques. The use of cyclic breath-holds, synchronized with the CT exposures, led to marked improvement in the visualization of the mouse lung structure and lesion conspicuity. A secondary experiment was performed to assess the stress placed on mice by the acquisition techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M Johnson
- Department of IMaging Physics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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45
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Abstract
Pneumonia is a medical and public health priority, and advances against this disease will require improved knowledge of biological mechanisms. Human pneumonia is modeled with experimental infections of animals, most frequently mice. Mouse models are leading to important discoveries relevant to pneumonia, but their limitations must be carefully considered. Several approaches to establishing pneumonia in mice have been developed, and each has specific strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, procedures for characterizing microbial and host responses to infection have unique advantages and disadvantages. Mice are not small humans, and the applicability of results from murine models to human disease depends on understanding the similarities and differences between species. Additional considerations such as mouse strain, microbe strain, and prior mouse-microbe interactions also influence the design and interpretation of experiments. Results from studies of pneumonia in animals, combined with complementary basic and translational studies, are elucidating mechanisms responsible for susceptibility to and pathophysiology of lung infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Mizgerd
- Molecular and Integerative Physiological Sciences Program, Harvard School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, 665 Huntington Ave., Building I Rm. 301, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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46
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Shofer S, Badea C, Auerbach S, Schwartz DA, Johnson GA. A micro-computed tomography-based method for the measurement of pulmonary compliance in healthy and bleomycin-exposed mice. Exp Lung Res 2007; 33:169-83. [PMID: 17558678 PMCID: PMC2677683 DOI: 10.1080/01902140701364458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Micro-computed tomography (microCT) is being increasingly used to examine small animal models of pulmonary injury. The authors have developed a microCT technique suitable for the determination of pulmonary compliance in injured mice. Lung volumes in normal mice were radiographically determined at end-inspiration and end-expiration and pulmonary compliance was calculated at 2 time points 2 weeks apart, whereas a second group of mice were given bleomycin and imaged 3 weeks following drug administration. Compliance measurements were validated using a commercially available ventilator system. MicroCT pulmonary compliance measurements are suitable for longitudinal measurements, and correlate with physiologic measurements of pulmonary compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Shofer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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Beckmann N, Kneuer R, Gremlich HU, Karmouty-Quintana H, Blé FX, Müller M. In vivo mouse imaging and spectroscopy in drug discovery. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2007; 20:154-85. [PMID: 17451175 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Imaging modalities such as micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), micro-positron emission tomography (micro-PET), high-resolution MRI, optical imaging, and high-resolution ultrasound have become invaluable tools in preclinical pharmaceutical research. They can be used to non-invasively investigate, in vivo, rodent biology and metabolism, disease models, and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. The advantages and limitations of each approach usually determine its application, and therefore a small-rodent imaging laboratory in a pharmaceutical environment should ideally provide access to several techniques. In this paper we aim to illustrate how these techniques may be used to obtain meaningful information for the phenotyping of transgenic mice and for the analysis of compounds in murine models of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolau Beckmann
- Discovery Technologies, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Lichtstrasse 35, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland.
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48
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Rennie MY, Whiteley KJ, Kulandavelu S, Adamson SL, Sled JG. 3D visualisation and quantification by microcomputed tomography of late gestational changes in the arterial and venous feto-placental vasculature of the mouse. Placenta 2007; 28:833-40. [PMID: 17324457 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2006.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2006] [Revised: 11/24/2006] [Accepted: 12/18/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) as a method to obtain quantitative three-dimensional (3D) information on the arterial and venous vasculature of the mouse placenta. Surface renderings at embryonic days (E) 13.5, 15.5, and 18.5 (full term) revealed that the arterial and venous vasculature branched within the chorionic plate whereas only the arterial vasculature deeply penetrated the placenta. Umbilical vessel diameters measured by micro-CT did not significantly differ from those measured non-invasively in vivo by ultrasound biomicroscopy. Variability in umbilical diameters, and surface area and volume measurements of arterial and venous vascular trees due to experimental error was low relative to biological variability, and significant inter-litter differences within gestational ages were detected. Furthermore, umbilical vessel diameter increased significantly and incrementally to an arterial diameter of 0.631+/-0.009 mm and a venous diameter of 0.690+/-0.018 mm at E18.5. Umbilical vein diameter was 3-9% greater than the artery, and both were significantly correlated with embryonic body weight (R> or =0.96). Surface area and volume were determined for vessels greater than the minimum resolvable diameter of 0.03 mm which therefore excluded capillaries. Arterial surface area and volume were unchanged from E13.5-15.5 but then more than doubled at E18.5 (to 170+/-13 mm(2) and 7.2+/-0.8mm(3), respectively). Venous surface areas and volumes changed similarly with development although surface areas were lower than their arterial counterparts. We conclude that micro-CT has sufficient accuracy and precision to quantify late gestational changes in the 3D structure of the arterial and venous vasculature of the mouse placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Y Rennie
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto and the Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
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Scadeng M, Rossiter HB, Dubowitz DJ, Breen EC. High-Resolution Three-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Mouse Lung In Situ. Invest Radiol 2007; 42:50-7. [PMID: 17213749 DOI: 10.1097/01.rli.0000248850.13221.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study establishes a method for high-resolution isotropic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of mouse lungs using tracheal liquid-instillation to remove MR susceptibility artifacts. METHODS C57BL/6J mice were instilled sequentially with perfluorocarbon and phosphate-buffered saline to an airway pressure of 10, 20, or 30 cm H2O. Imaging was performed in a 7T MR scanner using a 2.5-cm Quadrature volume coil and a 3-dimensional (3D) FLASH imaging sequence. RESULTS Liquid-instillation removed magnetic susceptibility artifacts and allowed lung structure to be viewed at an isotropic resolution of 78-90 microm. Instilled liquid and modeled lung volumes were well correlated (R = 0.92; P < 0.05) and differed by a constant tissue volume (220 +/- 92 microL). 3D image renderings allowed differences in structural dimensions (volumes and areas) to be accurately measured at each inflation pressure. CONCLUSION These data demonstrate the efficacy of pulmonary liquid instillation for in situ high-resolution MR imaging of mouse lungs for accurate measurement of pulmonary airway, parenchymal, and vascular structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Scadeng
- Department of Radiology, Center for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
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50
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Abstract
In the past decade, three classes of medications have been approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. A review of the clinical trial data for the prostanoids, endothelin antagonists, and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors has shown that all agents have similar efficacy on the 6-min walk distance over 12 to 16 weeks, which was the primary end point in the randomized clinical trials. However, little is known about their long-term efficacy or about how these drugs affect the underlying disease, if at all. Successful therapy is currently defined as an improvement in exercise tolerance over a 4-month period. Future trials need to better characterize how therapies affect the pulmonary vasculature pathologically, biologically, and hemodynamically, and whether survival is actually improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Rich
- Section of Cardiology, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, MC 2016, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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