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Raghunathan R, Liu CH, Kouka A, Singh M, Miranda RC, Larin KV. Dose-response analysis of microvasculature changes in the murine fetal brain and the maternal extremities due to prenatal ethanol exposure. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2020; 25:JBO-200176RR. [PMID: 33244919 PMCID: PMC7689263 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.25.12.126001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Prenatal exposure to ethanol causes several morphological and neurobehavioral deficits. While there are some studies on the effects of ethanol exposure on blood flow, research focusing on acute changes in the microvasculature is limited. AIM The first aim of this study was to assess the dose-dependent changes in murine fetal brain microvasculature of developing fetuses in response to maternal alcohol consumption. The second aim was to quantify changes in vasculature occurring concurrently in the mother's hindlimb and the fetus's brain after maternal exposure to alcohol. APPROACH Correlation mapping optical coherence angiography was used to evaluate the effects of prenatal exposure to different doses of ethanol (3, 1.5, and 0.75 g / kg) on murine fetal brain vasculature in utero. Additionally, simultaneous imaging of maternal peripheral vessels and the fetal brain vasculature was performed to assess changes of the vasculature occurring concurrently in response to ethanol consumption. RESULTS The fetal brain vessel diameters (VDs) decreased by ∼47 % , 30%, and 14% in response to ethanol doses of 3, 1.5, and 0.75 g / kg, respectively. However, the mother's hindlimb VD increased by 63% in response to ethanol at a dose of 3 g / kg. CONCLUSIONS Results showed a dose-dependent reduction in vascular blood flow in fetal brain vessels when the mother was exposed to ethanol, whereas vessels in the maternal hindlimb exhibited concurrent vasodilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Raghunathan
- University of Houston, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Chih-Hao Liu
- University of Houston, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Amur Kouka
- University of Houston, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Manmohan Singh
- University of Houston, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Rajesh C. Miranda
- Texas A&M University Health Science Center College of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Bryan, Texas, United States
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- University of Houston, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States
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2
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Raghunathan R, Liu CH, Ambekar YS, Singh M, Miranda RC, Larin KV. Optical coherence tomography angiography to evaluate murine fetal brain vasculature changes caused by prenatal exposure to nicotine. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 11:3618-3632. [PMID: 33014555 PMCID: PMC7510910 DOI: 10.1364/boe.394905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Maternal smoking causes several defects ranging from intrauterine growth restriction to sudden infant death syndrome and spontaneous abortion. While several studies have documented the effects of prenatal nicotine exposure in development and behavior, acute vasculature changes in the fetal brain due to prenatal nicotine exposure have not been evaluated yet. This study uses correlation mapping optical coherence angiography to evaluate changes in fetal brain vasculature flow caused by maternal exposure to nicotine during the second trimester-equivalent of gestation in a mouse model. The effects of two different doses of nicotine were evaluated. Results showed a decrease in the vasculature for both doses of nicotine, which was not seen in the case of the sham group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Raghunathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Chih-Hao Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Yogeshwari S Ambekar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Rajesh C Miranda
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, TAMHSC College of Medicine, 8441 Riverside Parkway, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Kirill V Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77206, USA
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3
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Optical Projection Tomography Using a Commercial Microfluidic System. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11030293. [PMID: 32168806 PMCID: PMC7142877 DOI: 10.3390/mi11030293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Optical projection tomography (OPT) is the direct optical equivalent of X-ray computed tomography (CT). To obtain a larger depth of field, traditional OPT usually decreases the numerical aperture (NA) of the objective lens to decrease the resolution of the image. So, there is a trade-off between sample size and resolution. Commercial microfluidic systems can observe a sample in flow mode. In this paper, an OPT instrument is constructed to observe samples. The OPT instrument is combined with commercial microfluidic systems to obtain a three-dimensional and time (3D + T)/four-dimensional (4D) video of the sample. “Focal plane scanning” is also used to increase the images’ depth of field. A series of two-dimensional (2D) images in different focal planes was observed and compared with images simulated using our program. Our work dynamically monitors 3D OPT images. Commercial microfluidic systems simulate blood flow, which has potential application in blood monitoring and intelligent drug delivery platforms. We design an OPT adaptor to perform OPT on a commercial wide-field inverted microscope (Olympusix81). Images in different focal planes are observed and analyzed. Using a commercial microfluidic system, a video is also acquired to record motion pictures of samples at different flow rates. To our knowledge, this is the first time an OPT setup has been combined with a microfluidic system.
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Su Y, Wei L, Tan H, Li J, Li W, Fu L, Wang T, Kang L, Yao XS. Optical coherence tomography as a noninvasive 3D real time imaging tool for the rapid evaluation of phenotypic variations in insect embryonic development. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2020; 13:e201960047. [PMID: 31682322 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201960047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive visualization of embryos at different development stages is crucial for the understanding of the basic developmental biology. It is therefore desirable to have an imaging tool capable of rapidly evaluating the effects of gene manipulation or genome editing in developing embryos for the studies of gene functions and genetic engineering. Here, we propose and demonstrate a novel use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to noninvasively exam the embryonic development of the migratory locusts in real time with 3-dimensional (3D) view capability. In particular, we obtain the sufficiently high spatial resolution tomographic 2D and 3D images of live locust embryos throughout their development processes. We show that not only we are able to noninvasively observe all previously known forms of blastokinesis as an embryo develops, such as anatrepsis, katatrepsis, revolution, rotation and diapauses, and determine their precise occurring time or duration, but also discover an unreported rotation form we named "twist." In addition, with the OCT images we determined the exact occurring time of diapauses of the locusts from Tibetan plateau for the first time. Finally, we demonstrate that OCT systems can be used to rapidly capture the development defects of genetically modified embryos in which certain genes essential for embryonic development were suppressed by RNA interference. Our work shows that OCT is an enabling imaging tool with sufficient spatial resolution for the rapid evaluation of embryonic variations of small animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Su
- Photonics Information Innovation Center, Hebei Provincial Center for Optical Sensing Innovations, College of Physics Science & Technology, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Liya Wei
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Hao Tan
- Photonics Information Innovation Center, Hebei Provincial Center for Optical Sensing Innovations, College of Physics Science & Technology, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Jing Li
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Wenping Li
- Photonics Information Innovation Center, Hebei Provincial Center for Optical Sensing Innovations, College of Physics Science & Technology, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Photonics Information Innovation Center, Hebei Provincial Center for Optical Sensing Innovations, College of Physics Science & Technology, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Tongxin Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Le Kang
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - X Steve Yao
- Photonics Information Innovation Center, Hebei Provincial Center for Optical Sensing Innovations, College of Physics Science & Technology, Hebei University, Baoding, China
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5
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The human endosalpinx: anatomical three-dimensional study and reconstruction using confocal microtomography. Pol J Radiol 2019; 84:e281-e288. [PMID: 31482002 PMCID: PMC6717942 DOI: 10.5114/pjr.2019.86824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate in three dimensions (3D) the human endosalpinx and reconstruct its surface
along its different anatomical segments, without the injection or insertion of luminal
contrasts, using confocal microtomography (micro-CT). Material and methods 15 fallopian tubes (FT) from 14 women in reproductive age from procedures for benign
disease or sterilization were selected. The specimens were fixed in formalin and stained
with Lugol solution. Micro-CT studies were conducted on the specimens using protocols
adapted from biological studies, to acquire images to reconstruct in 3D the endosalpinx
surface. Results From these specimens, 6 presented the intra-mural segment, 14 presented the isthmus and
15 presented the ampulla and fimbria segment of the FT. The specimen presented tissue
definition, and contrast sufficient for FT endosalpinx morphological analysis and lumen
definition. The intramural portion presented initially a mucosal projection toward the
lumen, bending on its own axis, and increased numbers of projections towards the isthmic
portion, where the projections become longer more numerous. The endosalpinx becomes more
tortuous, the lumen diameter increases and the mucosal projections become more bulky in
the ampullary portion, with the projections less present on the antimesenteric side. The
infundibular portion is marked with the organized and predictable endosalpinx, the
abdominal ostium is cleared demonstrated, with the reduction of the endosalpinx volume.
The fimbria demonstrated a small relation between fringes and intratubal
endosalpinx. Conclusions Microscopic anatomy of different segments of the human FT mucosa can be analyzed and
reconstructed in 3D with histological correlation using micro-CT.
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Raghunathan R, Liu CH, Kouka A, Singh M, Miranda RC, Larin KV. Assessing the acute effects of prenatal synthetic cannabinoid exposure on murine fetal brain vasculature using optical coherence tomography. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2019; 12:e201900050. [PMID: 30887665 PMCID: PMC10039318 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201900050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Marijuana is one of the most commonly abused substances during pregnancy. Synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) are a group of heterogeneous compounds that are 40- to 600-fold more potent than Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol, the major psychoactive component of marijuana. With SCBs being legally available for purchase and the prevalence of unplanned pregnancies, the possibility of prenatal exposure to SCBs is high. However, the effects of prenatal SCB exposure on embryonic brain development are not well understood. In this study, we use complex correlation mapping optical coherence angiography to evaluate changes in murine fetal brain vasculature in utero, minutes after maternal exposure to an SCB, CP-55940. Results showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in fetal brain vessel diameter, length fraction and area density when compared to the sham group. This preliminary study shows that acute prenatal exposure to an SCB resulted in significant fetal brain vasoconstriction during the peak period for brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Raghunathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Chih-Hao Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Amur Kouka
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Rajesh C. Miranda
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, TAMHSC College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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7
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Dou S, Liu J, Yang L. Dual-modality optical projection tomography reconstruction method from fewer views. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2019; 12:e201800407. [PMID: 30578626 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201800407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In optical projection tomography (OPT), for longitudinal living model studies, multiple measurements of the same sample are required at different time points. It is important to decrease both the total acquisition time and the light dose to the sample. We improved the ordered subsets expectation maximization reconstruction algorithm for OPT, which reduces the acquisition time and number of projections greatly compared with filtered back projection (FBP), and obtained satisfactory reconstructed images. Using zebrafish, in transmission and fluorescence mode, we demonstrate the capability of the method to reconstruct image from downsampled projection subsets. The result shows that the reconstruction image quality of the proposed method using 30 projections is comparable to that of FBP using 720 projections. The total acquisition procedure can be finished in a few seconds. The method also provides OPT with the remarkable capability to resist noises and artifacts. Projection image and fused image of zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaobin Dou
- Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Jinhuai Liu
- Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
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8
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Abstract
Mouse genetic approaches when combined with live imaging tools are revolutionizing our current understanding of mammalian developmental biology. The availability and improvement of a wide variety of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins have provided indispensable tools to visualize cells and subcellular features in living organisms. It is now possible to generate genetically modified mouse lines expressing several spectrally distinct fluorescent proteins in a tissue-specific or -inducible manner. Such reporter-expressing lines make it possible to image dynamic cellular behaviors in the context of living embryos undergoing normal or aberrant development. As with all viviparous mammals, mouse embryos develop within the uterus, and so live imaging experiments require culture conditions that closely mimic the in vivo environment. Over the past decades, significant advances have been made in developing conditions for culturing both pre- and postimplantation-stage mouse embryos. In this chapter, we discuss routine methods for ex utero culture of preimplantation- and postimplantation-stage mouse embryos. In particular, we describe protocols for collecting mouse embryos of various stages, setting up culture conditions for their ex utero culture and imaging, and using laser scanning confocal microscopy to visualize live processes in mouse embryos expressing fluorescent reporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Nowotschin
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vidur Garg
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna Piliszek
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
| | - Anna-Katerina Hadjantonakis
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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9
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Raghunathan R, Wu C, Singh M, Liu CH, Miranda RC, Larin KV. Evaluating the effects of maternal alcohol consumption on murine fetal brain vasculature using optical coherence tomography. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2018; 11:e201700238. [PMID: 29292845 PMCID: PMC6292438 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201700238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can result in a range of anomalies including brain and behavioral dysfunctions, collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. PAE during the 1st and 2nd trimester is common, and research in animal models has documented significant neural developmental deficits associated with PAE during this period. However, little is known about the immediate effects of PAE on fetal brain vasculature. In this study, we used in utero speckle variance optical coherence tomography, a high spatial- and temporal-resolution imaging modality, to evaluate dynamic changes in microvasculature of the 2nd trimester equivalent murine fetal brain, minutes after binge-like maternal alcohol exposure. Acute binge-like PAE resulted in a rapid (<1 hour) and significant decrease (P < .001) in vessel diameter as compared to the sham group. The data show that a single binge-like maternal alcohol exposure resulted in swift vasoconstriction in fetal brain vessels during the critical period of neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Raghunathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Chen Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Chih-Hao Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Rajesh C. Miranda
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College of Medicine, College Station, Texas
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biophotonics, Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russia
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Correspondence: Kirill V. Larin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX.
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10
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Batth A, Thompson I. Nylon as an in vitro
scaffold for three-dimensional study of neural cells. J Biomed Mater Res A 2018; 106:1575-1584. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aran Batth
- Division of Tissue Engineering and Biophotonics; Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital; London SE1 9RT United Kingdom
| | - Ian Thompson
- Division of Tissue Engineering and Biophotonics; Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital; London SE1 9RT United Kingdom
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11
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Wu C, Le H, Ran S, Singh M, Larina IV, Mayerich D, Dickinson ME, Larin KV. Comparison and combination of rotational imaging optical coherence tomography and selective plane illumination microscopy for embryonic study. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2017; 8:4629-4639. [PMID: 29082090 PMCID: PMC5654805 DOI: 10.1364/boe.8.004629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Several optical imaging techniques have been applied for high-resolution embryonic imaging using different contrast mechanisms, each with their own benefits and limitations. In this study, we imaged the same E9.5 mouse embryo with rotational imaging optical coherence tomography (RI-OCT) and selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM). RI-OCT overcomes optical penetration limits of traditional OCT imaging that prohibit full-body imaging of mouse embryos at later stages by imaging the samples from multiple angles. SPIM enables high-resolution, 3D imaging with less phototoxicity and photobleaching than laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) by illuminating the sample with a focused sheet of light. Side by side comparisons are supplemented with co-registered images. The results demonstrate that SPIM and RI-OCT are highly complementary and could provide more comprehensive tissue characterization for mouse embryonic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Henry Le
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77584, USA
| | - Shihao Ran
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77584, USA
| | - David Mayerich
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Mary E. Dickinson
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77584, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77584, USA
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biophotonics, Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Equal contribution
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12
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Singh M, Wu C, Mayerich D, Dickinson ME, Larina IV, Larin KV. Multimodal embryonic imaging using optical coherence tomography, selective plane illumination microscopy, and optical projection tomography. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017; 2016:3922-3925. [PMID: 28269143 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2016.7591585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The murine model is commonly utilized for studying developmental diseases. Different optical techniques have been developed to image mouse embryos, but each has its own set of limitations and restrictions. In this study, we compare the performance of the well-established technique of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to the relatively new methods of selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) and optical projection tomography (OPT) to assess murine embryonic development. OCT can provide label free high resolution images of the mouse embryo, but suffers from light attenuation that limits visualization of deeper structures. SPIM is able to image shallow regions with great detail utilizing fluorescent contrast. OPT can provide superior imaging depth, and can also use fluorescence labels but, it requires samples to be fixed and cleared before imaging. OCT requires no modification of the embryo, and thus, can be used in vivo and in utero. In this study, we compare the efficacy of OCT, SPIM, and OPT for imaging murine embryonic development. The data demonstrate the superior capability of SPIM and OPT for imaging fine structures with high resolution while only OCT can provide structural and functional imaging of live embryos with micrometer scale resolution.
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13
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Green RM, Leach CL, Hoehn N, Marcucio RS, Hallgrímsson B. Quantifying three-dimensional morphology and RNA from individual embryos. Dev Dyn 2017; 246:431-436. [PMID: 28152580 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Quantitative analysis of morphogenesis aids our understanding of developmental processes by providing a method to link changes in shape with cellular and molecular processes. Over the last decade, many methods have been developed for 3D imaging of embryos using microCT scanning to quantify the shape of embryos during development. These methods generally involve a powerful, cross-linking fixative such as paraformaldehyde to limit shrinkage during the CT scan. However, the extended time frames that these embryos are incubated in such fixatives prevent use of the tissues for molecular analysis after microCT scanning. This is a significant problem because it limits the ability to correlate variation in molecular data with morphology at the level of individual embryos. Here we outline a novel method that allows RNA, DNA, or protein isolation following CT scan while also allowing imaging of different tissue layers within the developing embryo. We show shape differences early in craniofacial development (E11.5) between common mouse genetic backgrounds, and demonstrate that we are able to generate RNA from these embryos after CT scanning that is suitable for downstream real time PCR (RT-PCR) and RNAseq analyses. Developmental Dynamics 246:431-436, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Green
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Courtney L Leach
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Natasha Hoehn
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ralph S Marcucio
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, Orthopaedic Trauma Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Benedikt Hallgrímsson
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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14
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Li L, Zhou Q, Voss TC, Quick KL, LaBarbera DV. High-throughput imaging: Focusing in on drug discovery in 3D. Methods 2016; 96:97-102. [PMID: 26608110 PMCID: PMC4766031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2015.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
3D organotypic culture models such as organoids and multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) are becoming more widely used for drug discovery and toxicology screening. As a result, 3D culture technologies adapted for high-throughput screening formats are prevalent. While a multitude of assays have been reported and validated for high-throughput imaging (HTI) and high-content screening (HCS) for novel drug discovery and toxicology, limited HTI/HCS with large compound libraries have been reported. Nonetheless, 3D HTI instrumentation technology is advancing and this technology is now on the verge of allowing for 3D HCS of thousands of samples. This review focuses on the state-of-the-art high-throughput imaging systems, including hardware and software, and recent literature examples of 3D organotypic culture models employing this technology for drug discovery and toxicology screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Ty C Voss
- PerkinElmer Inc., 940 Winter Street, Waltham, MA 02451, United States
| | - Kevin L Quick
- PerkinElmer Inc., 940 Winter Street, Waltham, MA 02451, United States
| | - Daniel V LaBarbera
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, United States; The University of Colorado Cancer Center, Developmental Therapeutics Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, United States.
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15
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Zhou Z, Chen Z, Shan J, Ma W, Li L, Zu J, Xu J. Monitoring brain development of chick embryos in vivo using 3.0 T MRI: subdivision volume change and preliminary structural quantification using DTI. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2015. [PMID: 26208519 PMCID: PMC4513430 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-015-0077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has many advantages in the research of in vivo embryonic brain development, specifically its noninvasive aspects and ability to avoid skeletal interference. However, few studies have focused on brain development in chick, which is a traditional animal model in developmental biology. We aimed to serially monitor chick embryo brain development in vivo using 3.0 T MRI. Methods Ten fertile Hy-line white eggs were incubated and seven chick embryo brains were monitored in vivo and analyzed serially from 5 to 20 days during incubation using 3.0 T MRI. A fast positioning sequence was pre-scanned to obtain sagittal and coronal brain planes corresponding to the established atlas. T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) was performed for volume estimation of the whole brain and subdivision (telencephalon, cerebellum, brainstem, and lateral ventricle [LV]); diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to reflect the evolution of neural bundle structures. Results The chick embryos’ whole brain and subdivision grew non-linearly over time; the DTI fractional anisotropy (FA) value within the telencephalon increased non-linearly as well. All seven scanned eggs hatched successfully. Conclusions MRI avoids embryonic sacrifice in a way that allows serial monitoring of longitudinal developmental processes of a single embryo. Feasibility for analyzing subdivision of the brain during development, and adding structural information related to neural bundles, makes MRI a powerful tool for exploring brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zien Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zengai Chen
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiehui Shan
- Department of Geriatrics, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai, China.
| | - Weiwei Ma
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jinyan Zu
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jianrong Xu
- Department of Radiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Paulsen SJ, Miller JS. Tissue vascularization through 3D printing: Will technology bring us flow? Dev Dyn 2015; 244:629-40. [PMID: 25613150 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though in vivo models provide the most physiologically relevant environment for studying tissue function, in vitro studies provide researchers with explicit control over experimental conditions and the potential to develop high throughput testing methods. In recent years, advancements in developmental biology research and imaging techniques have significantly improved our understanding of the processes involved in vascular development. However, the task of recreating the complex, multi-scale vasculature seen in in vivo systems remains elusive. RESULTS 3D bioprinting offers a potential method to generate controlled vascular networks with hierarchical structure approaching that of in vivo networks. Bioprinting is an interdisciplinary field that relies on advances in 3D printing technology along with advances in imaging and computational modeling, which allow researchers to monitor cellular function and to better understand cellular environment within the printed tissue. CONCLUSIONS As bioprinting technologies improve with regards to resolution, printing speed, available materials, and automation, 3D printing could be used to generate highly controlled vascularized tissues in a high throughput manner for use in regenerative medicine and the development of in vitro tissue models for research in developmental biology and vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Paulsen
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas
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17
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Nash C, Hanby AM, Speirs V. Modelling the Molecular Pathology of Breast Cancer Initiation. MOLECULAR PATHOLOGY LIBRARY 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2886-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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18
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Wang Y, Xu R, Luo G, Wu J. Three-dimensional reconstruction of light microscopy image sections: present and future. Front Med 2014; 9:30-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s11684-014-0337-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Nowotschin S, Hadjantonakis AK. Live imaging mouse embryonic development: seeing is believing and revealing. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1092:405-20. [PMID: 24318833 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-60327-292-6_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The use of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins has revolutionized the fields of cell and developmental biology and redefined our understanding of the dynamic morphogenetic processes that work to shape the embryo. Fluorescent proteins are routinely used as vital reporters to label tissues, cells, cellular organelles, or proteins of interest and in doing so provide contrasting agents enabling the acquisition of high-resolution quantitative image data. With the advent of more accessible and sophisticated imaging technologies and abundance of fluorescent proteins with different spectral characteristics, the dynamic processes taking place in situ in living embryos can now be probed. Here, we provide an overview of some recent advances in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Nowotschin
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
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20
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Bunse S, Garg S, Junek S, Vogel D, Ansari N, Stelzer EHK, Schuman E. Role of N-cadherin cis and trans interfaces in the dynamics of adherens junctions in living cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81517. [PMID: 24312555 PMCID: PMC3847041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 10/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadherins, Ca2+-dependent adhesion molecules, are crucial for cell-cell junctions and remodeling. Cadherins form inter-junctional lattices by the formation of both cis and trans dimers. Here, we directly visualize and quantify the spatiotemporal dynamics of wild-type and dimer mutant N-cadherin interactions using time-lapse imaging of junction assembly, disassembly and a FRET reporter to assess Ca2+-dependent interactions. A trans dimer mutant (W2A) and a cis mutant (V81D/V174D) exhibited an increased Ca2+-sensitivity for the disassembly of trans dimers compared to the WT, while another mutant (R14E) was insensitive to Ca2+-chelation. Time-lapse imaging of junction assembly and disassembly, monitored in 2D and 3D (using cellular spheroids), revealed kinetic differences in the different mutants as well as different behaviors in the 2D and 3D environment. Taken together, these data provide new insights into the role that the cis and trans dimers play in the dynamic interactions of cadherins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Bunse
- Department of Synaptic Plasticity, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sakshi Garg
- Department of Synaptic Plasticity, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stephan Junek
- Department of Neural Systems, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Dirk Vogel
- Department of Synaptic Plasticity, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nariman Ansari
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS), Goethe Universität, Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ernst H. K. Stelzer
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS), Goethe Universität, Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Erin Schuman
- Department of Synaptic Plasticity, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- * E-mail:
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21
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Greco A, Ragucci M, Coda ARD, Rosa A, Gargiulo S, Liuzzi R, Gramanzini M, Albanese S, Pappatà S, Mancini M, Brunetti A, Salvatore M. High frequency ultrasound for in vivo pregnancy diagnosis and staging of placental and fetal development in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77205. [PMID: 24155928 PMCID: PMC3796510 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ultrasound is a valuable non-invasive tool used in obstetrics and gynecology to monitor the growth and well being of the human fetus. The laboratory mouse has recently emerged as an appropriate model for fetal and perinatal studies because morphogenetic processes in mice exhibit adequate homology to those in humans, and genetic manipulations are relatively simple to perform in mice. High-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) has recently become available for small animal preclinical imaging and can be used to study pregnancy and development in the mouse. The objective of the current study was to assess the main applications of HFUS in the evaluation of fetal growth and placental function and to better understand human congenital diseases. Methodology/Principal Findings On each gestational day, at least 5 dams were monitored with HFUS; a total of ∼200 embryos were examined. Because it is not possible to measure each variable for the entire duration of the pregnancy, the parameters were divided into three groups as a function of the time at which they were measured. Univariate analysis of the relationship between each measurement and the embryonic day was performed using Spearman’s rank correlation (Rs). Continuous linear regression was adopted for multivariate analysis of significant parameters. All statistical tests were two-sided, and a p value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Conclusions/Significance The study describes the main applications of HFUS to assess changes in phenotypic parameters in the developing CD1 mouse embryo and fetus during pregnancy and to evaluating physiological fetal and placental growth and the development of principal organs such as the heart, kidney, liver, brain and eyes in the embryonic mouse. A database of normal structural and functional parameters of mouse development will provide a useful tool for the better understanding of morphogenetic and cardiovascular anomalies in transgenic and mutant mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaide Greco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione SDN, Napoli, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Alessandro Rosa
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione SDN, Napoli, Italy
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Ceinge, Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sara Gargiulo
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | - Sandra Albanese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione SDN, Napoli, Italy
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Ceinge, Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabina Pappatà
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Arturo Brunetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione SDN, Napoli, Italy
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Ceinge, Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marco Salvatore
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
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Foygel K, Wang H, Machtaler S, Lutz AM, Chen R, Pysz M, Lowe AW, Tian L, Carrigan T, Brentnall TA, Willmann JK. Detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in mice by ultrasound imaging of thymocyte differentiation antigen 1. Gastroenterology 2013; 145:885-894.e3. [PMID: 23791701 PMCID: PMC3783557 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2012] [Revised: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) allows for surgical resection and increases patient survival times. Imaging agents that bind and amplify the signal of neovascular proteins in neoplasms can be detected by ultrasound, enabling accurate detection of small lesions. We searched for new markers of neovasculature in PDAC and assessed their potential for tumor detection by ultrasound molecular imaging. METHODS Thymocyte differentiation antigen 1 (Thy1) was identified as a specific biomarker of PDAC neovasculature by proteomic analysis. Up-regulation in PDAC was validated by immunohistochemical analysis of pancreatic tissue samples from 28 healthy individuals, 15 with primary chronic pancreatitis tissues, and 196 with PDAC. Binding of Thy1-targeted contrast microbubbles was assessed in cultured cells, in mice with orthotopic PDAC xenograft tumors expressing human Thy1 on the neovasculature, and on the neovasculature of a genetic mouse model of PDAC. RESULTS Based on immunohistochemical analyses, levels of Thy1 were significantly higher in the vascular of human PDAC than chronic pancreatitis (P = .007) or normal tissue samples (P < .0001). In mice, ultrasound imaging accurately detected human Thy1-positive PDAC xenografts, as well as PDACs that express endogenous Thy1 in genetic mouse models of PDAC. CONCLUSIONS We have identified and validated Thy1 as a marker of PDAC that can be detected by ultrasound molecular imaging in mice. The development of a specific imaging agent and identification of Thy1 as a new biomarker could aid in the diagnosis of this cancer and management of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira Foygel
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Huaijun Wang
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Steven Machtaler
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Amelie M. Lutz
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Ru Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Marybeth Pysz
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Anson W. Lowe
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Health, Research & Policy, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Tricia Carrigan
- Translational Diagnostics, Ventana Medical Systems, INC, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | | | - Jürgen K. Willmann
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS); Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Pampaloni F, Ansari N, Stelzer EHK. High-resolution deep imaging of live cellular spheroids with light-sheet-based fluorescence microscopy. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 352:161-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1589-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Raz T, Avni R, Addadi Y, Cohen Y, Jaffa AJ, Hemmings B, Garbow JR, Neeman M. The hemodynamic basis for positional- and inter-fetal dependent effects in dual arterial supply of mouse pregnancies. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52273. [PMID: 23284965 PMCID: PMC3527527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammalian pregnancy, maternal cardiovascular adaptations must match the requirements of the growing fetus(es), and respond to physiologic and pathologic conditions. Such adaptations are particularly demanding for mammals bearing large-litter pregnancies, with their inherent conflict between the interests of each individual fetus and the welfare of the entire progeny. The mouse is the most common animal model used to study development and genetics, as well as pregnancy-related diseases. Previous studies suggested that in mice, maternal blood flow to the placentas occurs via a single arterial uterine loop generated by arterial-arterial anastomosis of the uterine artery to the uterine branch of the ovarian artery, resulting in counter bi-directional blood flow. However, we provide here experimental evidence that each placenta is actually supplied by two distinct arterial inputs stemming from the uterine artery and from the uterine branch of the ovarian artery, with position-dependent contribution of flow from each source. Moreover, we report significant positional- and inter-fetal dependent alteration of placental perfusion, which were detected by in vivo MRI and fluorescence imaging. Maternal blood flow to the placentas was dependent on litter size and was attenuated for placentas located centrally along the uterine horn. Distinctive apposing, inter-fetal hemodynamic effects of either reduced or elevated maternal blood flow, were measured for placenta of normal fetuses that are positioned adjacent to either pathological, or to hypovascular Akt1-deficient placentas, respectively. The results reported here underscore the critical importance of confounding local and systemic in utero effects on phenotype presentation, in general and in the setting of genetically modified mice. The unique robustness and plasticity of the uterine vasculature architecture, as reported in this study, can explain the ability to accommodate varying litter sizes, sustain large-litter pregnancies and overcome pathologic challenges. Remarkably, the dual arterial supply is evolutionary conserved in mammals bearing a single offspring, including primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Raz
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Reut Avni
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yoseph Addadi
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yoni Cohen
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ariel J. Jaffa
- Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel Aviv Souraski Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Brian Hemmings
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joel R. Garbow
- Biomedical MR Laboratory, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Michal Neeman
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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25
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Colas JF, Sharpe J. Live optical projection tomography. Organogenesis 2012; 5:211-6. [PMID: 20539740 DOI: 10.4161/org.5.4.10426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2009] [Revised: 09/06/2009] [Accepted: 10/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Optical projection tomography (OPT) is a technology ideally suited for imaging embryonic organs. We emphasize here recent successes in translating this potential into the field of live imaging. Live OPT (also known as 4D OPT, or time-lapse OPT) is already in position to accumulate good quantitative data on the developmental dynamics of organogenesis, a prerequisite for building realistic computer models and tackling new biological problems. Yet, live OPT is being further developed by merging state-of-the-art mouse embryo culture with the OPT system. We discuss the technological challenges that this entails and the prospects for expansion of this molecular imaging technique into a wider range of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Colas
- EMBL-CRG Systems Biology Program; Centre for Genomic Regulation; UPF; Barcelona, Spain; Istituciô Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats; Barcelona, Spain
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26
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Même S, Joudiou N, Szeremeta F, Mispelter J, Louat F, Decoville M, Locker D, Beloeil JC. In vivo magnetic resonance microscopy of Drosophilae at 9.4 T. Magn Reson Imaging 2012; 31:109-19. [PMID: 22898691 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2012.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In preclinical research, genetic studies have made considerable progress as a result of the development of transgenic animal models of human diseases. Consequently, there is now a need for higher resolution MRI to provide finer details for studies of small animals (rats, mice) or very small animals (insects). One way to address this issue is to work with high-magnetic-field spectrometers (dedicated to small animal imaging) with strong magnetic field gradients. It is also necessary to develop a complete methodology (transmit/receive coil, pulse sequence, fixing system, air supply, anesthesia capabilities, etc.). In this study, we developed noninvasive protocols, both in vitro and in vivo (from coil construction to image generation), for drosophila MRI at 9.4 T. The 10 10 80-μm resolution makes it possible to visualize whole drosophila (head, thorax, abdomen) and internal organs (ovaries, longitudinal and transverse muscles, bowel, proboscis, antennae and optical lobes). We also provide some results obtained with a Drosophila model of muscle degeneration. This opens the way for new applications of structural genetic modification studies using MRI of drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Même
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Orléans, France.
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27
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Berquist RM, Gledhill KM, Peterson MW, Doan AH, Baxter GT, Yopak KE, Kang N, Walker HJ, Hastings PA, Frank LR. The Digital Fish Library: using MRI to digitize, database, and document the morphological diversity of fish. PLoS One 2012; 7:e34499. [PMID: 22493695 PMCID: PMC3321017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0034499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Museum fish collections possess a wealth of anatomical and morphological data that are essential for documenting and understanding biodiversity. Obtaining access to specimens for research, however, is not always practical and frequently conflicts with the need to maintain the physical integrity of specimens and the collection as a whole. Non-invasive three-dimensional (3D) digital imaging therefore serves a critical role in facilitating the digitization of these specimens for anatomical and morphological analysis as well as facilitating an efficient method for online storage and sharing of this imaging data. Here we describe the development of the Digital Fish Library (DFL, http://www.digitalfishlibrary.org), an online digital archive of high-resolution, high-contrast, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the soft tissue anatomy of an array of fishes preserved in the Marine Vertebrate Collection of Scripps Institution of Oceanography. We have imaged and uploaded MRI data for over 300 marine and freshwater species, developed a data archival and retrieval system with a web-based image analysis and visualization tool, and integrated these into the public DFL website to disseminate data and associated metadata freely over the web. We show that MRI is a rapid and powerful method for accurately depicting the in-situ soft-tissue anatomy of preserved fishes in sufficient detail for large-scale comparative digital morphology. However these 3D volumetric data require a sophisticated computational and archival infrastructure in order to be broadly accessible to researchers and educators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M. Berquist
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Kristen M. Gledhill
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Matthew W. Peterson
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Allyson H. Doan
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Gregory T. Baxter
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Kara E. Yopak
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Ning Kang
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - H. J. Walker
- Marine Vertebrate Collection and Marine Biology Research Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Philip A. Hastings
- Marine Vertebrate Collection and Marine Biology Research Division, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Lawrence R. Frank
- Center for Scientific Computation in Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Center for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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Ward JM, Elmore SA, Foley JF. Pathology methods for the evaluation of embryonic and perinatal developmental defects and lethality in genetically engineered mice. Vet Pathol 2011; 49:71-84. [PMID: 22146849 DOI: 10.1177/0300985811429811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The normal embryonic development of organs and other tissues in mice and all species is preprogrammed by genes. Inactivation of a gene involved in any stage of normal embryonic development can have severe consequences leading to embryonic or postnatal developmental defects and lethality. Pathology methods are reviewed for evaluating normal and abnormal placenta and embryo, especially after E12.5. These methods include pathology protocols for necropsy and histopathology in addition to references that will provide additional knowledge for embryo assessment including histology atlases and advanced embryo imaging techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Ward
- Global VetPathology, Montgomery Village, MD 20886, USA.
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29
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Mayhew MB, Robinson JW, Jung B, Haase SB, Hartemink AJ. A generalized model for multi-marker analysis of cell cycle progression in synchrony experiments. Bioinformatics 2011; 27:i295-303. [PMID: 21685084 PMCID: PMC3117372 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btr244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivation: To advance understanding of eukaryotic cell division, it is important to observe the process precisely. To this end, researchers monitor changes in dividing cells as they traverse the cell cycle, with the presence or absence of morphological or genetic markers indicating a cell's position in a particular interval of the cell cycle. A wide variety of marker data is available, including information-rich cellular imaging data. However, few formal statistical methods have been developed to use these valuable data sources in estimating how a population of cells progresses through the cell cycle. Furthermore, existing methods are designed to handle only a single binary marker of cell cycle progression at a time. Consequently, they cannot facilitate comparison of experiments involving different sets of markers. Results: Here, we develop a new sampling model to accommodate an arbitrary number of different binary markers that characterize the progression of a population of dividing cells along a branching process. We engineer a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with fluorescently labeled markers of cell cycle progression, and apply our new model to two image datasets we collected from the strain, as well as an independent dataset of different markers. We use our model to estimate the duration of post-cytokinetic attachment between a S.cerevisiae mother and daughter cell. The Java implementation is fast and extensible, and includes a graphical user interface. Our model provides a powerful and flexible cell cycle analysis tool, suitable to any type or combination of binary markers. Availability: The software is available from: http://www.cs.duke.edu/~amink/software/cloccs/. Contact:michael.mayhew@duke.edu; amink@cs.duke.edu
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Mayhew
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Computer Science, Center for Systems Biology, Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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Garcia MD, Udan RS, Hadjantonakis AK, Dickinson ME. Live imaging of mouse embryos. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2011; 2011:pdb.top104. [PMID: 21460058 PMCID: PMC6800220 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTIONThe development of the mouse embryo is a dynamic process that requires the spatial and temporal coordination of multiple cell types as they migrate, proliferate, undergo apoptosis, and differentiate to form complex structures. However, the confined nature of embryos as they develop in utero limits our ability to observe these morphogenetic events in vivo. Previous work has used fixed samples and histological methods such as immunofluorescence or in situ hybridization to address expression or localization of a gene of interest within a developmental time line. However, such methods do not allow us to follow the complex, dynamic movements of individual cells as the embryo develops. Genetic manipulation methods now allow us to label virtually any cell type or protein of interest fluorescently, providing powerful insights into morphogenetic events at cellular and subcellular resolutions. The development of ex vivo embryo culture methods combined with high-resolution imaging now provides a strong platform for observing morphogenetic events as they occur within the developing embryo. In this article, we discuss the advantages of live embryo imaging for observing dynamic morphogenetic events in vivo.
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Abstract
Mouse genetic approaches when combined with live imaging tools have the potential to revolutionize our current understanding of mammalian biology. The availability and improvement of a wide variety of fluorescent proteins have provided indispensable tools to visualize cells in living organisms. It is now possible to generate genetically modified mouse strains expressing fluorescent proteins in a tissue-specific manner. These reporter-expressing strains make it possible to image dynamic cell behaviors in the context of a living embryo. Since mouse embryos develop within the uterus, live imaging experiments require culture conditions that closely mimic those in vivo. Over the past few decades, significant advances have been made in developing conditions for culturing both pre- and postimplantation stage embryos. In this chapter, we will discuss methods for ex utero culture of preimplantation and postimplantation stage mouse embryos. In particular, we will describe protocols for collecting embryos at various stages, setting up culture conditions for imaging and using laser scanning confocal microscopy to visualize live processes in mouse embryos expressing fluorescent reporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Piliszek
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA.
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Abstract
The completed sequencing of genomes has forced upon us the challenge of understanding how the detailed information in the genome gives rise to the specific characteristics--phenotype--of the individual. This is crucial for understanding not only normal development but also, from a medical perspective, the genetic basis of disease. Much of the mammalian genome-to-phenotype relationship will be worked out in the mouse, for which powerful genetic-manipulation tools are available. Mouse imaging combined with powerful statistical methods has a unique and growing role to play in phenotyping genetically modified mice. This review outlines the challenges for image-based phenotyping, summarizes the current state of three-dimensional imaging technologies for the mouse, and highlights new opportunities in systems biology that are opened by imaging mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mark Henkelman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario M5G1X8, Canada.
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Handschuh S, Schwaha T, Metscher BD. Showing their true colors: a practical approach to volume rendering from serial sections. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2010; 10:41. [PMID: 20409315 PMCID: PMC2876090 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-10-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Accepted: 04/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In comparison to more modern imaging methods, conventional light microscopy still offers a range of substantial advantages with regard to contrast options, accessible specimen size, and resolution. Currently, tomographic image data in particular is most commonly visualized in three dimensions using volume rendering. To date, this method has only very rarely been applied to image stacks taken from serial sections, whereas surface rendering is still the most prevalent method for presenting such data sets three-dimensionally. The aim of this study was to develop standard protocols for volume rendering of image stacks of serial sections, while retaining the benefits of light microscopy such as resolution and color information. RESULTS Here we provide a set of protocols for acquiring high-resolution 3D images of diverse microscopic samples through volume rendering based on serial light microscopical sections using the 3D reconstruction software Amira (Visage Imaging Inc.). We overcome several technical obstacles and show that these renderings are comparable in quality and resolution to 3D visualizations using other methods. This practical approach for visualizing 3D micro-morphology in full color takes advantage of both the sub-micron resolution of light microscopy and the specificity of histological stains, by combining conventional histological sectioning techniques, digital image acquisition, three-dimensional image filtering, and 3D image manipulation and visualization technologies. CONCLUSIONS We show that this method can yield "true"-colored high-resolution 3D views of tissues as well as cellular and sub-cellular structures and thus represents a powerful tool for morphological, developmental, and comparative investigations. We conclude that the presented approach fills an important gap in the field of micro-anatomical 3D imaging and visualization methods by combining histological resolution and differentiation of details with 3D rendering of whole tissue samples. We demonstrate the method on selected invertebrate and vertebrate specimens, and propose that reinvestigation of historical serial section material may be regarded as a special benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Handschuh
- Department of Theoretical Biology (Gerd Müller, Head), University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Abstract
For the past three decades, methods for culturing mouse embryos ex vivo have been optimized in order to improve embryo viability and physiology throughout critical stages of embryogenesis. Combining advances made in the production of transgenic animals and in the development of different varieties of fluorescent proteins (FPs), time-lapse imaging is becoming more and more popular in the analysis of dynamic events during mouse development. Targeting FPs to specific cell types or subcellular compartments has enabled researchers to study cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and changes in cell morphology in living mouse embryos in real time. Here we provide a guide for time-lapse imaging of early stages of mouse embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Udan
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Metscher BD. MicroCT for developmental biology: a versatile tool for high-contrast 3D imaging at histological resolutions. Dev Dyn 2009; 238:632-40. [PMID: 19235724 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 428] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding developmental processes requires accurate visualization and parameterization of three-dimensional embryos. Tomographic imaging methods offer automatically aligned and calibrated volumetric images, but the usefulness of X-ray CT imaging for developmental biology has been limited by the low inherent contrast of embryonic tissues. Here, I demonstrate simple staining methods that allow high-contrast imaging of embryonic tissues at histological resolutions using a commercial microCT system. Quantitative comparisons of images of chick embryos treated with different contrast agents show that three very simple methods using inorganic iodine and phosphotungstic acid produce overall contrast and differential tissue contrast for X-ray imaging at least as high as that obtained with osmium. The stains can be used after any common fixation and after storage in aqueous or alcoholic media, and on a wide variety of species. These methods establish microCT imaging as a useful tool for comparative developmental studies, embryo phenotyping, and quantitative modeling of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian D Metscher
- Department of Theoretical Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Nyman LR, Wells KS, Head WS, McCaughey M, Ford E, Brissova M, Piston DW, Powers AC. Real-time, multidimensional in vivo imaging used to investigate blood flow in mouse pancreatic islets. J Clin Invest 2008; 118:3790-7. [PMID: 18846254 DOI: 10.1172/jci36209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Accepted: 09/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The pancreatic islets of Langerhans are highly vascularized micro-organs that play a key role in the regulation of blood glucose homeostasis. The specific arrangement of endocrine cell types in islets suggests a coupling between morphology and function within the islet. Here, we established a line-scanning confocal microscopy approach to examine the relationship between blood flow and islet cell type arrangement by real-time in vivo imaging of intra-islet blood flow in mice. These data were used to reconstruct the in vivo 3D architecture of the islet and time-resolved blood flow patterns throughout the islet vascular bed. The results revealed 2 predominant blood flow patterns in mouse islets: inner-to-outer, in which blood perfuses the core of beta cells before the islet perimeter of non-beta cells, and top-to-bottom, in which blood perfuses the islet from one side to the other regardless of cell type. Our approach included both millisecond temporal resolution and submicron spatial resolution, allowing for real-time imaging of islet blood flow within the living mouse, which has not to our knowledge been attainable by other methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara R Nyman
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Mu J, Slevin JC, Qu D, McCormick S, Adamson SL. In vivo quantification of embryonic and placental growth during gestation in mice using micro-ultrasound. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2008; 6:34. [PMID: 18700008 PMCID: PMC2527569 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-6-34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2008] [Accepted: 08/12/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-invasive micro-ultrasound was evaluated as a method to quantify intrauterine growth phenotypes in mice. Improved methods are required to accelerate research using genetically-altered mice to investigate the interactive roles of genes and environments on embryonic and placental growth. We determined (1) feasible age ranges for measuring specific variables, (2) normative growth curves, (3) accuracy of ultrasound measurements in comparison with light microscopy, and (4) weight prediction equations using regression analysis for CD-1 mice and evaluated their accuracy when applied to other mouse strains. METHODS We used 30-40 MHz ultrasound to quantify embryonic and placental morphometry in isoflurane-anesthetized pregnant CD-1 mice from embryonic day 7.5 (E7.5) to E18.5 (full-term), and for C57Bl/6J, B6CBAF1, and hIGFBP1 pregnant transgenic mice at E17.5. RESULTS Gestational sac dimension provided the earliest measure of conceptus size. Sac dimension derived using regression analysis increased from 0.84 mm at E7.5 to 6.44 mm at E11.5 when it was discontinued. The earliest measurement of embryo size was crown-rump length (CRL) which increased from 1.88 mm at E8.5 to 16.22 mm at E16.5 after which it exceeded the field of view. From E10.5 to E18.5 (full term), progressive increases were observed in embryonic biparietal diameter (BPD) (0.79 mm to 7.55 mm at E18.5), abdominal circumference (AC) (4.91 mm to 26.56 mm), and eye lens diameter (0.20 mm to 0.93 mm). Ossified femur length was measureable from E15.5 (1.06 mm) and increased linearly to 2.23 mm at E18.5. In contrast, placental diameter (PD) and placental thickness (PT) increased from E10.5 to E14.5 then remained constant to term in accord with placental weight. Ultrasound and light microscopy measurements agreed with no significant bias and a discrepancy of less than 25%. Regression equations predicting gestational age from individual variables, and embryonic weight (BW) from CRL, BPD, and AC were obtained. The prediction equation BW = -0.757 + 0.0453 (CRL) + 0.0334 (AC) derived from CD-1 data predicted embryonic weights at E17.5 in three other strains of mice with a mean discrepancy of less than 16%. CONCLUSION Micro-ultrasound provides a feasible tool for in vivo morphometric quantification of embryonic and placental growth parameters in mice and for estimation of embryonic gestational age and/or body weight in utero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwu Mu
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - John C Slevin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dawei Qu
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - S Lee Adamson
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Abstract
Imaging is one of the fastest growing fields of study. New technologies and multimodal approaches are increasing the application of imaging to determine molecular targets and functional processes in vivo. The identification of a specific target, transporter, or biological process using imaging has introduced major breakthroughs to the field of endocrinology primarily utilizing computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and optical imaging. This review provides a general background to the specific developments in imaging that pertains to in vivo function and target identification in endocrine-based diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E Burdette
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 South Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA.
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Farnum CE, Tinsley M, Hermanson JW. Postnatal bone elongation of the manus versus pes: analysis of the chondrocytic differentiation cascade in Mus musculus and Eptesicus fuscus. Cells Tissues Organs 2007; 187:48-58. [PMID: 18160802 DOI: 10.1159/000109963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bones elongate postnatally by endochondral ossification as cells of the cartilaginous growth plate undergo a differentiation cascade of proliferation, cellular hypertrophy and matrix synthesis. Interspecific comparisons of homologous bones elongating at different rates has been a useful approach for studying the dynamics of this process. The purpose of this study was to measure quantitative stereological parameters of growth plates of the third digit of the manus and pes of the laboratory mouse, and make comparisons to chondrocytic performance parameters in the homologous bones of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, where extremely rapid postnatal elongation of bones of the manus is associated with skeletal modifications for powered flight. Measurements were made across all zones of forelimb and hindlimb autopod growth plates by dividing each growth plate into strata of equal height (from thirteen 200-mum-high strata in the metacarpus to five 40-mum-high strata in phalangeal bones of the pes). Results indicate that all chondrocytic performance parameters known to quantitatively contribute to the elongation potential of a growth plate change together. A significant finding was that in growth plates of the chiropteran manus, final hypertrophic cell size and shape were achieved early in the zone of hypertrophy, indicating that interstitial expansion of the growth plate resulting from the incremental chondrocytic height increase in the direction of elongation was completed soon after the transition from the cessation of proliferation to the initiation of hypertrophy. This is unlike what has been reported in most mammalian growth plates previously analyzed, but is the situation in the proximal tibial growth plate of rapidly growing frogs and precocial birds. This suggests that a similar adaptation for stabilization of a rapidly elongating bone has evolved independently in three widely separated groups that have in common rapid growth in limbs to be used for early active, powered locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia E Farnum
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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Pampaloni F, Reynaud EG, Stelzer EHK. The third dimension bridges the gap between cell culture and live tissue. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2007; 8:839-45. [PMID: 17684528 DOI: 10.1038/nrm2236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1870] [Impact Index Per Article: 110.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Moving from cell monolayers to three-dimensional (3D) cultures is motivated by the need to work with cellular models that mimic the functions of living tissues. Essential cellular functions that are present in tissues are missed by 'petri dish'-based cell cultures. This limits their potential to predict the cellular responses of real organisms. However, establishing 3D cultures as a mainstream approach requires the development of standard protocols, new cell lines and quantitative analysis methods, which include well-suited three-dimensional imaging techniques. We believe that 3D cultures will have a strong impact on drug screening and will also decrease the use of laboratory animals, for example, in the context of toxicity assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Pampaloni
- Francesco Pampaloni, Emmanuel G. Reynaud and Ernst H. K. Stelzer are at the Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstrasse 1, D-69117 Heidelberg, Germany
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Nishikawa SI, Jakt LM, Era T. Embryonic stem-cell culture as a tool for developmental cell biology. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2007; 8:502-7. [PMID: 17522593 DOI: 10.1038/nrm2189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The cell biology of the early processes of mammalian embryogenesis, such as germ-layer formation, has been technically challenging to study owing to the size and accessibility of mammalian embryos. Embryonic stem cells, which can generate the three germ layers in vitro, are useful for studying embryogenesis at the cellular level. So, how can the study of embryonic stem cells and their differentiation provide a deeper understanding of the cell biology of early development?
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichi Nishikawa
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Center for Developmental Biology, Minatojima Minamimachi 2-2-3, Chuoku, Kobe, 650-0047 Japan.
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Pierzchalski A, Mittag A, Tárnok A. Observing the invisible: molecular and cellular imaging by multimodal virtual anatomy. Cytometry A 2007; 71:538-9. [PMID: 17640080 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.20439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Abstract
Mice are used in many studies to determine the role of genetic and molecular factors in mammalian development and human congenital diseases. MRI has emerged as a major method for analyzing mutant and transgenic phenotypes in developing mice, at both embryonic and neonatal stages. Progress in this area is reviewed, with emphasis on the use of MRI to analyze cardiovascular and neural development in mice. Comparisons are made with other imaging technologies, including optical and ultrasound imaging, discussing the potential strengths and weaknesses of MRI and identifying the future challenges for MRI in mouse developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H Turnbull
- Skirball Institute of Bimolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 540 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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