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Phoon CK, Aristizábal O, Farhoud M, Turnbull DH, Wadghiri YZ. Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e1116. [PMID: 39222027 PMCID: PMC11371386 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The mouse is the mammalian model of choice for investigating cardiovascular biology, given our ability to manipulate it by genetic, pharmacologic, mechanical, and environmental means. Imaging is an important approach to phenotyping both function and structure of cardiac and vascular components. This review details commonly used imaging approaches, with a focus on echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging, with brief overviews of other imaging modalities. In this update, we also emphasize the importance of rigor and reproducibility in imaging approaches, experimental design, and documentation. Finally, we briefly outline emerging imaging approaches but caution that reliability and validity data may be lacking. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin K.L. Phoon
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Orlando Aristizábal
- Department of Radiology, Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, & Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
- Preclinical Imaging, Division for Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | - Daniel H. Turnbull
- Department of Radiology, Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, & Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Youssef Z. Wadghiri
- Department of Radiology, Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, & Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
- Preclinical Imaging, Division for Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
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Uchikawa H, Rahmani R. Animal Models of Intracranial Aneurysms: History, Advances, and Future Perspectives. Transl Stroke Res 2024:10.1007/s12975-024-01276-3. [PMID: 39060663 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-024-01276-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Intracranial aneurysms (IA) are a disease process with potentially devastating outcomes, particularly when rupture occurs leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage. While some candidates exist, there is currently no established pharmacological prevention of growth and rupture. The development of prophylactic treatments is a critical area of research, and preclinical models using animals play a pivotal role. These models, which utilize various species and induction methods, each possess unique characteristics that can be leveraged depending on the specific aim of the study. A comprehensive understanding of these models, including their historical development, is crucial for appreciating the advantages and limitations of aneurysm research in animal models.We summarize the significant roles of animal models in IA research, with a particular focus on rats, mice, and large animals. We discuss the pros and cons of each model, providing insights into their unique characteristics and contributions to our understanding of IA. These models have been instrumental in elucidating the pathophysiology of IA and in the development of potential therapeutic strategies.A deep understanding of these models is essential for advancing research on preventive treatments for IA. By leveraging the unique strengths of each model and acknowledging their limitations, researchers can conduct more effective and targeted studies. This, in turn, can accelerate the development of novel therapeutic strategies, bringing us closer to the goal of establishing an effective prophylactic treatment for IA. This review aims to provide a comprehensive view of the current state of animal models in IA research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Uchikawa
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Aneurysm and AVM Research Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Redi Rahmani
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Aneurysm and AVM Research Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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3
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Okumura K, Ioka T, Sakabe M. Loss of myocardial Hey2/Hrt2 function disrupts rightward shift of atrioventricular cushion tissue and causes tricuspid atresia. Dev Dyn 2024; 253:107-118. [PMID: 37042466 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocardial cushion tissue is primordia of the valves and septa of the adult heart, and its malformation causes various congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Tricuspid atresia (TA) is defined as congenital absence or agenesis of the tricuspid valve caused by endocardial cushion defects. However, little is known about what type of endocardial cushion defect causes TA. RESULTS Using three-dimensional volume rendering image analysis, we demonstrated morphological changes of endocardial cushion tissue in developing Hey2/Hrt2 KO mouse embryos that showed malformation of the tricuspid valve, which resembled human TA at neonatal period. In control embryos, atrioventricular (AV) endocardial cushion tissues showed rightward shift to form a tricuspid valve. However, the rightward shift of endocardial cushion tissue was disrupted in Hey2/Hrt2 KO embryos, leading to the misalignment of AV cushions. We also found that muscular tissue filled up the space between the right atrium and ventricle, resulting in the absence of the tricuspid valve. Moreover, analysis using tissue-specific conditional KO mice showed that HEY2/HRT2-expressing myocardium may physically regulate the AV shift. CONCLUSION Disruption of rightward cushion movement is an initial cue of TA phenotype, and myocardial HEY2/HRT2 is necessary for the regulation of proper alignment of AV endocardial cushion tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Okumura
- Department of Psychiatry, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
- Department of Epidemiology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ioka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Masahide Sakabe
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Sukumaran V, Mutlu O, Murtaza M, Alhalbouni R, Dubansky B, Yalcin HC. Experimental assessment of cardiovascular physiology in the chick embryo. Dev Dyn 2023; 252:1247-1268. [PMID: 37002896 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
High resolution assessment of cardiac functional parameters is crucial in translational animal research. The chick embryo is a historically well-used in vivo model for cardiovascular research due to its many practical advantages, and the conserved form and function of the chick and human cardiogenesis programs. This review aims to provide an overview of several different technical approaches for chick embryo cardiac assessment. Doppler echocardiography, optical coherence tomography, micromagnetic resonance imaging, microparticle image velocimetry, real-time pressure monitoring, and associated issues with the techniques will be discussed. Alongside this discussion, we also highlight recent advances in cardiac function measurements in chick embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Onur Mutlu
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Benjamin Dubansky
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Office of Research and Economic Development, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Huseyin C Yalcin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Shan T, Zhao Y, Jiang S, Jiang H. In-vivo hemodynamic imaging of acute prenatal ethanol exposure in fetal brain by photoacoustic tomography. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2020; 13:e201960161. [PMID: 31994834 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201960161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) can lead to structural and functional abnormalities in fetal brain. Although neural developmental deficits due to PEE have been recognized, the immediate effects of PEE on fetal brain vasculature and hemodynamics remain poorly understood. One of the major obstacles that preclude the rapid advancement of studies on fetal vascular dynamics is the limitation of the imaging techniques. Thus, a technique for noninvasive in-vivo imaging of fetal vasculature and hemodynamics is desirable. In this study, we explored the dynamic changes of the vessel dimeter, density and oxygen saturation in fetal brain after acute maternal ethanol exposure in the second-trimester equivalent murine model using a real-time photoacoustic tomography system we developed for imaging embryo of small animals. The results indicate a significant decrease in fetal brain vessel diameter, perfusion and oxygen saturation. This work demonstrated that PAT can provide high-resolution noninvasive imaging ability to monitor fetal vascular dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Shan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yuan Zhao
- School of Physical Electronics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Shixie Jiang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Huabei Jiang
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
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Choi WJ, Maga AM, Kim ES, Wang RK. A feasibility study of OCT for anatomical and vascular phenotyping of mouse embryo. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2020; 13:e201960225. [PMID: 32067352 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201960225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The embryo phenotyping of genetic murine model is invaluable when investigating functions of genes underlying embryonic development and birth defect. Although traditional imaging technologies such as ultrasound are very useful for evaluating phenotype of murine embryos, the use of advanced techniques for phenotyping is desirable to obtain more information from genetic research. This letter tests the feasibility of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a high-throughput phenotyping tool for murine embryos. Three-dimensional OCT imaging is performed for live and cleared mouse embryos in the late developmental stage (embryonic day 17.5). By using a dynamic focusing method and OCT angiography (OCTA) approach, our OCT imaging of the embryo exhibits rapid and clean visualization of organ structures deeper than 5 mm and complex microvasculature of perfused blood vessels in the murine embryonic body. This demonstration suggests that OCT imaging can be useful for comprehensively assessing embryo anatomy and angiography of genetically engineered mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo J Choi
- School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, College of ICT Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - A M Maga
- Division of Craniofacial Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Center for Development Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Eun S Kim
- School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, College of ICT Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ruikang K Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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8
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Vallejo Ramirez PP, Zammit J, Vanderpoorten O, Riche F, Blé FX, Zhou XH, Spiridon B, Valentine C, Spasov SE, Oluwasanya PW, Goodfellow G, Fantham MJ, Siddiqui O, Alimagham F, Robbins M, Stretton A, Simatos D, Hadeler O, Rees EJ, Ströhl F, Laine RF, Kaminski CF. OptiJ: Open-source optical projection tomography of large organ samples. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15693. [PMID: 31666606 PMCID: PMC6821862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The three-dimensional imaging of mesoscopic samples with Optical Projection Tomography (OPT) has become a powerful tool for biomedical phenotyping studies. OPT uses visible light to visualize the 3D morphology of large transparent samples. To enable a wider application of OPT, we present OptiJ, a low-cost, fully open-source OPT system capable of imaging large transparent specimens up to 13 mm tall and 8 mm deep with 50 µm resolution. OptiJ is based on off-the-shelf, easy-to-assemble optical components and an ImageJ plugin library for OPT data reconstruction. The software includes novel correction routines for uneven illumination and sample jitter in addition to CPU/GPU accelerated reconstruction for large datasets. We demonstrate the use of OptiJ to image and reconstruct cleared lung lobes from adult mice. We provide a detailed set of instructions to set up and use the OptiJ framework. Our hardware and software design are modular and easy to implement, allowing for further open microscopy developments for imaging large organ samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro P Vallejo Ramirez
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joseph Zammit
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Oliver Vanderpoorten
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Fergus Riche
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francois-Xavier Blé
- Clinical Discovery Unit, Early Clinical Development, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhou
- Bioscience, Respiratory, Inflammation and Autoimmunity, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bogdan Spiridon
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Simeon E Spasov
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Gemma Goodfellow
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marcus J Fantham
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Omid Siddiqui
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Farah Alimagham
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Miranda Robbins
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew Stretton
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dimitrios Simatos
- Sensor CDT 2015-2016 student cohort, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Oliver Hadeler
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eric J Rees
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Florian Ströhl
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Physics and Technology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, NO-9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Romain F Laine
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology (LMCB), University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Clemens F Kaminski
- Laser Analytics Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Vasculature Development, Differentiation, and Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20123076. [PMID: 31238510 PMCID: PMC6627637 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20123076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling in vascular biology has first been highlighted in embryos by Pepicelli et al. in 1998 and Rowitch et al. in 1999. Since then, the proangiogenic role of the Hh ligands has been confirmed in adults, especially under pathologic conditions. More recently, the Hh signaling has been proposed to improve vascular integrity especially at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the role of the Hh signaling in vascular biology remain poorly understood and conflicting results have been reported. As a matter of fact, in several settings, it is currently not clear whether Hh ligands promote vessel integrity and quiescence or destabilize vessels to promote angiogenesis. The present review relates the current knowledge regarding the role of the Hh signaling in vasculature development, maturation and maintenance, discusses the underlying proposed mechanisms and highlights controversial data which may serve as a guideline for future research. Most importantly, fully understanding such mechanisms is critical for the development of safe and efficient therapies to target the Hh signaling in both cancer and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases.
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Vasung L, Abaci Turk E, Ferradal SL, Sutin J, Stout JN, Ahtam B, Lin PY, Grant PE. Exploring early human brain development with structural and physiological neuroimaging. Neuroimage 2019; 187:226-254. [PMID: 30041061 PMCID: PMC6537870 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Early brain development, from the embryonic period to infancy, is characterized by rapid structural and functional changes. These changes can be studied using structural and physiological neuroimaging methods. In order to optimally acquire and accurately interpret this data, concepts from adult neuroimaging cannot be directly transferred. Instead, one must have a basic understanding of fetal and neonatal structural and physiological brain development, and the important modulators of this process. Here, we first review the major developmental milestones of transient cerebral structures and structural connectivity (axonal connectivity) followed by a summary of the contributions from ex vivo and in vivo MRI. Next, we discuss the basic biology of neuronal circuitry development (synaptic connectivity, i.e. ensemble of direct chemical and electrical connections between neurons), physiology of neurovascular coupling, baseline metabolic needs of the fetus and the infant, and functional connectivity (defined as statistical dependence of low-frequency spontaneous fluctuations seen with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)). The complementary roles of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) are discussed. We include a section on modulators of brain development where we focus on the placenta and emerging placental MRI approaches. In each section we discuss key technical limitations of the imaging modalities and some of the limitations arising due to the biology of the system. Although neuroimaging approaches have contributed significantly to our understanding of early brain development, there is much yet to be done and a dire need for technical innovations and scientific discoveries to realize the future potential of early fetal and infant interventions to avert long term disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lana Vasung
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Esra Abaci Turk
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Silvina L Ferradal
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Jason Sutin
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Jeffrey N Stout
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Banu Ahtam
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Pei-Yi Lin
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - P Ellen Grant
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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11
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Visualising the Cardiovascular System of Embryos of Biomedical Model Organisms with High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM). J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2018; 5:jcdd5040058. [PMID: 30558275 PMCID: PMC6306920 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd5040058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The article will briefly introduce the high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) technique and will focus on its potential for researching cardiovascular development and remodelling in embryos of biomedical model organisms. It will demonstrate the capacity of HREM for analysing the cardiovascular system of normally developed and genetically or experimentally malformed zebrafish, frog, chick and mouse embryos in the context of the whole specimen and will exemplarily show the possibilities HREM offers for comprehensive visualisation of the vasculature of adult human skin. Finally, it will provide examples of the successful application of HREM for identifying cardiovascular malformations in genetically altered mouse embryos produced in the deciphering the mechanisms of developmental disorders (DMDD) program.
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Geyer SH, Reissig LF, Hüsemann M, Höfle C, Wilson R, Prin F, Szumska D, Galli A, Adams DJ, White J, Mohun TJ, Weninger WJ. Morphology, topology and dimensions of the heart and arteries of genetically normal and mutant mouse embryos at stages S21-S23. J Anat 2017; 231:600-614. [PMID: 28776665 PMCID: PMC5603791 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate identification of abnormalities in the mouse embryo depends not only on comparisons with appropriate, developmental stage‐matched controls, but also on an appreciation of the range of anatomical variation that can be expected during normal development. Here we present a morphological, topological and metric analysis of the heart and arteries of mouse embryos harvested on embryonic day (E)14.5, based on digital volume data of whole embryos analysed by high‐resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM). By comparing data from 206 genetically normal embryos, we have analysed the range and frequency of normal anatomical variations in the heart and major arteries across Theiler stages S21–S23. Using this, we have identified abnormalities in these structures among 298 embryos from mutant mouse lines carrying embryonic lethal gene mutations produced for the Deciphering the Mechanisms of Developmental Disorders (DMDD) programme. We present examples of both commonly occurring abnormal phenotypes and novel pathologies that most likely alter haemodynamics in these genetically altered mouse embryos. Our findings offer a reference baseline for identifying accurately abnormalities of the heart and arteries in embryos that have largely completed organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan H Geyer
- Division of Anatomy & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas F Reissig
- Division of Anatomy & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Hüsemann
- Division of Anatomy & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cordula Höfle
- Division of Anatomy & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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13
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Geyer SH, Maurer-Gesek B, Reissig LF, Weninger WJ. High-resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) - Simple and Robust Protocols for Processing and Visualizing Organic Materials. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28715372 PMCID: PMC5609318 DOI: 10.3791/56071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We provide simple protocols for generating digital volume data with the high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) method. HREM is capable of imaging organic materials with volumes up to 5 x 5 x 7 mm3 in typical numeric resolutions between 1 x 1 x 1 and 5 x 5 x 5 µm3. Specimens are embedded in methacrylate resin and sectioned on a microtome. After each section an image of the block surface is captured with a digital video camera that sits on the phototube connected to the compound microscope head. The optical axis passes through a green fluorescent protein (GFP) filter cube and is aligned with a position, at which the bock holder arm comes to rest after each section. In this way, a series of inherently aligned digital images, displaying subsequent block surfaces are produced. Loading such an image series in three-dimensional (3D) visualization software facilitates the immediate conversion to digital volume data, which permit virtual sectioning in various orthogonal and oblique planes and the creation of volume and surface rendered computer models. We present three simple, tissue specific protocols for processing various groups of organic specimens, including mouse, chick, quail, frog and zebra fish embryos, human biopsy material, uncoated paper and skin replacement material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan H Geyer
- Division of Anatomy, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna
| | - Barbara Maurer-Gesek
- Division of Anatomy, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna
| | - Lukas F Reissig
- Division of Anatomy, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna
| | - Wolfgang J Weninger
- Division of Anatomy, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna;
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14
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Wu D, Zhang J. Recent Progress in Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Embryonic and Neonatal Mouse Brain. Front Neuroanat 2016; 10:18. [PMID: 26973471 PMCID: PMC4776397 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2016.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The laboratory mouse has been widely used as a model system to investigate the genetic control mechanisms of mammalian brain development. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important tool to characterize changes in brain anatomy in mutant mouse strains and injury progression in mouse models of fetal and neonatal brain injury. Progress in the last decade has enabled us to acquire MRI data with increasing anatomical details from the embryonic and neonatal mouse brain. High-resolution ex vivo MRI, especially with advanced diffusion MRI methods, can visualize complex microstructural organizations in the developing mouse brain. In vivo MRI of the embryonic mouse brain, which is critical for tracking anatomical changes longitudinally, has become available. Applications of these techniques may lead to further insights into the complex and dynamic processes of brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jiangyang Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimore, MD, USA; Bernard and Irene Schwartz Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, New York University School of MedicineNew York, NY, USA
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15
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Abstract
The mouse is the mammalian model of choice for investigating cardiovascular biology, given our ability to manipulate it by genetic, pharmacologic, mechanical, and environmental means. Imaging is an important approach to phenotyping both function and structure of cardiac and vascular components. This review details commonly used imaging approaches, with a focus on echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging and brief overviews of other imaging modalities. We also briefly outline emerging imaging approaches but caution that reliability and validity data may be lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin K L Phoon
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Daniel H Turnbull
- Departments of Radiology and Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.,Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
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16
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Weninger WJ, Geyer SH, Martineau A, Galli A, Adams DJ, Wilson R, Mohun TJ. Phenotyping structural abnormalities in mouse embryos using high-resolution episcopic microscopy. Dis Model Mech 2015; 7:1143-52. [PMID: 25256713 PMCID: PMC4174525 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.016337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The arrival of simple and reliable methods for 3D imaging of mouse embryos has opened the possibility of analysing normal and abnormal development in a far more systematic and comprehensive manner than has hitherto been possible. This will not only help to extend our understanding of normal tissue and organ development but, by applying the same approach to embryos from genetically modified mouse lines, such imaging studies could also transform our knowledge of gene function in embryogenesis and the aetiology of developmental disorders. The International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium is coordinating efforts to phenotype single gene knockouts covering the entire mouse genome, including characterising developmental defects for those knockout lines that prove to be embryonic lethal. Here, we present a pilot study of 34 such lines, utilising high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) for comprehensive 2D and 3D imaging of homozygous null embryos and their wild-type littermates. We present a simple phenotyping protocol that has been developed to take advantage of the high-resolution images obtained by HREM and that can be used to score tissue and organ abnormalities in a reliable manner. Using this approach with embryos at embryonic day 14.5, we show the wide range of structural abnormalities that are likely to be detected in such studies and the variability in phenotypes between sibling homozygous null embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang J Weninger
- Centre for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Wien, Austria.
| | - Stefan H Geyer
- Centre for Anatomy and Cell Biology & MIC, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | | | | | - David J Adams
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Robert Wilson
- MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Timothy J Mohun
- MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London NW7 1AA, UK
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Karunamuni G, Gu S, Doughman YQ, Noonan AI, Rollins AM, Jenkins MW, Watanabe M. Using optical coherence tomography to rapidly phenotype and quantify congenital heart defects associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. Dev Dyn 2015; 244:607-18. [PMID: 25546089 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most commonly used method to analyze congenital heart defects involves serial sectioning and histology. However, this is often a time-consuming process where the quantification of cardiac defects can be difficult due to problems with accurate section registration. Here we demonstrate the advantages of using optical coherence tomography, a comparatively new and rising technology, to phenotype avian embryo hearts in a model of fetal alcohol syndrome where a binge-like quantity of alcohol/ethanol was introduced at gastrulation. RESULTS The rapid, consistent imaging protocols allowed for the immediate identification of cardiac anomalies, including ventricular septal defects and misaligned/missing vessels. Interventricular septum thicknesses and vessel diameters for three of the five outflow arteries were also significantly reduced. Outflow and atrioventricular valves were segmented using image processing software and had significantly reduced volumes compared to controls. This is the first study to our knowledge that has 3D reconstructed the late-stage cardiac valves in precise detail to examine their morphology and dimensions. CONCLUSIONS We believe, therefore, that optical coherence tomography, with its ability to rapidly image and quantify tiny embryonic structures in high resolution, will serve as an excellent and cost-effective preliminary screening tool for developmental biologists working with a variety of experimental/disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganga Karunamuni
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
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18
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Norris FC, Siow BM, Cleary JO, Wells JA, De Castro SC, Ordidge RJ, Greene ND, Copp AJ, Scambler PJ, Alexander DC, Lythgoe MF. Diffusion microscopic MRI of the mouse embryo: Protocol and practical implementation in the splotch mouse model. Magn Reson Med 2015; 73:731-9. [PMID: 24634098 PMCID: PMC4737188 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advanced methodologies for visualizing novel tissue contrast are essential for phenotyping the ever-increasing number of mutant mouse embryos being generated. Although diffusion microscopic MRI (μMRI) has been used to phenotype embryos, widespread routine use is limited by extended scanning times, and there is no established experimental procedure ensuring optimal data acquisition. METHODS We developed two protocols for designing experimental procedures for diffusion μMRI of mouse embryos, which take into account the effect of embryo preparation and pulse sequence parameters on resulting data. We applied our protocols to an investigation of the splotch mouse model as an example implementation. RESULTS The protocols provide DTI data in 24 min per direction at 75 μm isotropic using a three-dimensional fast spin-echo sequence, enabling preliminary imaging in 3 h (6 directions plus one unweighted measurement), or detailed imaging in 9 h (42 directions plus six unweighted measurements). Application to the splotch model enabled assessment of spinal cord pathology. CONCLUSION We present guidelines for designing diffusion μMRI experiments, which may be adapted for different studies and research facilities. As they are suitable for routine use and may be readily implemented, we hope they will be adopted by the phenotyping community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca C. Norris
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and EXperimental Biology (CoMPLEX)University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Bernard M. Siow
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Computer ScienceUniversity College LondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Jon O. Cleary
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Anatomy and NeuroscienceUniversity of MelbourneAustralia
| | - Jack A. Wells
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sandra C.P. De Castro
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Roger J. Ordidge
- Department of Anatomy and NeuroscienceUniversity of MelbourneAustralia
| | - Nicholas D.E. Greene
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Copp
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter J. Scambler
- Molecular Medicine Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Daniel. C. Alexander
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Computer ScienceUniversity College LondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Mark F. Lythgoe
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
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19
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Schwen LO, Wei W, Gremse F, Ehling J, Wang L, Dahmen U, Preusser T. Algorithmically generated rodent hepatic vascular trees in arbitrary detail. J Theor Biol 2014; 365:289-300. [PMID: 25451523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2014.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Physiologically realistic geometric models of the vasculature in the liver are indispensable for modelling hepatic blood flow, the main connection between the liver and the organism. Current in vivo imaging techniques do not provide sufficiently detailed vascular trees for many simulation applications, so it is necessary to use algorithmic refinement methods. The method of Constrained Constructive Optimization (CCO) (Schreiner et al., 2006) is well suited for this purpose. Its results after calibration have been previously compared to experimentally acquired human vascular trees (Schwen and Preusser, 2012). The goal of this paper is to extend this calibration to the case of rodents (mice and rats), the most commonly used animal models in liver research. Based on in vivo and ex vivo micro-CT scans of rodent livers and their vasculature, we performed an analysis of various geometric features of the vascular trees. Starting from pruned versions of the original vascular trees, we applied the CCO procedure and compared these algorithmic results to the original vascular trees using a suitable similarity measure. The calibration of the postprocessing improved the algorithmic results compared to those obtained using standard CCO. In terms of angular features, the average similarity increased from 0.27 to 0.61, improving the total similarity from 0.28 to 0.40. Finally, we applied the calibrated algorithm to refine measured vascular trees to the (higher) level of detail desired for specific applications. Having successfully adapted the CCO algorithm to the rodent model organism, the resulting individual-specific refined hepatic vascular trees can now be used for advanced modeling involving, e.g., detailed blood flow simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Ole Schwen
- Fraunhofer MEVIS, Universitätsallee 29, 28359 Bremen, Germany.
| | - Weiwei Wei
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, 07747 Jena, Germany.
| | - Felix Gremse
- Experimental Molecular Imaging, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Josef Ehling
- Experimental Molecular Imaging, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Lei Wang
- Fraunhofer MEVIS, Universitätsallee 29, 28359 Bremen, Germany.
| | - Uta Dahmen
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, 07747 Jena, Germany.
| | - Tobias Preusser
- Fraunhofer MEVIS, Universitätsallee 29, 28359 Bremen, Germany; School of Engineering and Science, Jacobs University, Campus Ring 1, 28759 Bremen, Germany.
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20
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Karunamuni GH, Gu S, Ford MR, Peterson LM, Ma P, Wang YT, Rollins AM, Jenkins MW, Watanabe M. Capturing structure and function in an embryonic heart with biophotonic tools. Front Physiol 2014; 5:351. [PMID: 25309451 PMCID: PMC4173643 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbed cardiac function at an early stage of development has been shown to correlate with cellular/molecular, structural as well as functional cardiac anomalies at later stages culminating in the congenital heart defects (CHDs) that present at birth. While our knowledge of cellular and molecular steps in cardiac development is growing rapidly, our understanding of the role of cardiovascular function in the embryo is still in an early phase. One reason for the scanty information in this area is that the tools to study early cardiac function are limited. Recently developed and adapted biophotonic tools may overcome some of the challenges of studying the tiny fragile beating heart. In this chapter, we describe and discuss our experience in developing and implementing biophotonic tools to study the role of function in heart development with emphasis on optical coherence tomography (OCT). OCT can be used for detailed structural and functional studies of the tubular and looping embryo heart under physiological conditions. The same heart can be rapidly and quantitatively phenotyped at early and again at later stages using OCT. When combined with other tools such as optical mapping (OM) and optical pacing (OP), OCT has the potential to reveal in spatial and temporal detail the biophysical changes that can impact mechanotransduction pathways. This information may provide better explanations for the etiology of the CHDs when interwoven with our understanding of morphogenesis and the molecular pathways that have been described to be involved. Future directions for advances in the creation and use of biophotonic tools are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganga H Karunamuni
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Shi Gu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Matthew R Ford
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lindsy M Peterson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Pei Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yves T Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland, OH, USA ; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrew M Rollins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michael W Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland, OH, USA ; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University School of Engineering Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michiko Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland, OH, USA
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21
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Krishnamurthy U, Szalai G, Neelavalli J, Shen Y, Chaiworapongsa T, Hernandez-Andrade E, Than NG, Xu Z, Yeo L, Haacke M, Romero R. Quantitative T2 changes and susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in murine pregnancy. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2014; 78:33-40. [PMID: 24861575 PMCID: PMC4119876 DOI: 10.1159/000362552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate gestational age-dependent changes in the T2 relaxation time in normal murine placentas in vivo. The role of susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) in visualization of the murine fetal anatomy was also elucidated. METHODS Timed-pregnant CD-1 mice at gestational day (GD) 12 and GD17 underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Multi-echo spin echo and SWI data were acquired. The placental T2 values on GD12 and GD17 were quantified. To account for the influence of systemic maternal physiological factors on placental perfusion, maternal muscle was used as a reference for T2 normalization. A linear mixed-effects model was used to fit the normalized T2 values, and the significance of the coefficients was tested. Fetal SWI images were processed and reviewed for venous vasculature and skeletal structures. RESULTS The average placental T2 value decreased significantly on GD17 (40.17 ± 4.10 ms) compared to the value on GD12 (55.78 ± 8.13 ms). The difference in normalized T2 values also remained significant (p = 0.001). Using SWI, major fetal venous structures like the cardinal vein, the subcardinal vein, and the portal vein were visualized on GD12. In addition, fetal skeletal structures could also be discerned on GD17. CONCLUSION The T2 value of a normal murine placenta decreases with advancing gestation. SWI provided clear visualization of the fetal venous vasculature and bony structures. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday Krishnamurthy
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Mich., USA
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22
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Liu X, Tobita K, Francis RJB, Lo CW. Imaging techniques for visualizing and phenotyping congenital heart defects in murine models. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 99:93-105. [PMID: 23897594 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Mouse model is ideal for investigating the genetic and developmental etiology of congenital heart disease. However, cardiovascular phenotyping for the precise diagnosis of structural heart defects in mice remain challenging. With rapid advances in imaging techniques, there are now high throughput phenotyping tools available for the diagnosis of structural heart defects. In this review, we discuss the efficacy of four different imaging modalities for congenital heart disease diagnosis in fetal/neonatal mice, including noninvasive fetal echocardiography, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), micro-magnetic resonance imaging (micro-MRI), and episcopic fluorescence image capture (EFIC) histopathology. The experience we have gained in the use of these imaging modalities in a large-scale mouse mutagenesis screen have validated their efficacy for congenital heart defect diagnosis in the tiny hearts of fetal and newborn mice. These cutting edge phenotyping tools will be invaluable for furthering our understanding of the developmental etiology of congenital heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Liu
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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23
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Norris FC, Wong MD, Greene NDE, Scambler PJ, Weaver T, Weninger WJ, Mohun TJ, Henkelman RM, Lythgoe MF. A coming of age: advanced imaging technologies for characterising the developing mouse. Trends Genet 2013; 29:700-11. [PMID: 24035368 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The immense challenge of annotating the entire mouse genome has stimulated the development of cutting-edge imaging technologies in a drive for novel information. These techniques promise to improve understanding of the genes involved in embryo development, at least one third of which have been shown to be essential. Aligning advanced imaging technologies with biological needs will be fundamental to maximising the number of phenotypes discovered in the coming years. International efforts are underway to meet this challenge through an integrated and sophisticated approach to embryo phenotyping. We review rapid advances made in the imaging field over the past decade and provide a comprehensive examination of the relative merits of current and emerging techniques. The aim of this review is to provide a guide to state-of-the-art embryo imaging that will enable informed decisions as to which technology to use and fuel conversations between expert imaging laboratories, researchers, and core mouse production facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca C Norris
- University College London (UCL) Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of Medicine, UCL, London, UK; Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and Experimental Biology (CoMPLEX), UCL, London, UK
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24
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Filoux E, Sampathkumar A, Chitnis PV, Aristizábal O, Ketterling JA. High-frequency annular array with coaxial illumination for dual-modality ultrasonic and photoacoustic imaging. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2013; 84:053705. [PMID: 23742556 PMCID: PMC3676372 DOI: 10.1063/1.4804636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a combined ultrasound and photoacoustic (PA) imaging (PAI) system used to obtain high-quality, co-registered images of mouse-embryo anatomy and vasculature. High-frequency ultrasound (HFU, >20 MHz) is utilized to obtain high-resolution anatomical images of small animals while PAI provides high-contrast images of the vascular network. The imaging system is based on a 40 MHz, 5-element, 6 mm aperture annular-array transducer with a 800 μm diameter hole through its central element. The transducer was integrated in a cage-plate assembly allowing for a collimated laser beam to pass through the hole so that the optical and acoustic beams were collinear. The assembly was mounted on a two-axis, motorized stage to enable the simultaneous acquisition of co-registered HFU and PA volumetric data. Data were collected from all five elements in receive and a synthetic-focusing algorithm was applied in post-processing to beamform the data and increase the spatial resolution and depth-of-field (DOF) of the HFU and PA images. Phantom measurements showed that the system could achieve high-resolution images (down to 90 μm for HFU and 150 μm for PAI) and a large DOF of >8 mm. Volume renderings of a mouse embryo showed that the scanner allowed for visualizing morphologically precise anatomy of the entire embryo along with corresponding co-registered vasculature. Major head vessels, such as the superior sagittal sinus or rostral vein, were clearly identified as well as limb bud vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwan Filoux
- Lizzi Center for Biomedical Engineering, Riverside Research, New York, New York 10038, USA
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25
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Parasoglou P, Berrios-Otero CA, Nieman BJ, Turnbull DH. High-resolution MRI of early-stage mouse embryos. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2013; 26:224-31. [PMID: 22915475 PMCID: PMC3524402 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Revised: 07/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Both the availability of methods to manipulate genes and the completion of the mouse genome sequence have led to the generation of thousands of genetically modified mouse lines that provide a new platform for the study of mammalian development and developmental diseases. Phenotyping of mouse embryos has traditionally been performed on fixed embryos by the use of ex vivo histological, optical and high-resolution MRI techniques. Although potentially powerful, longitudinal imaging of individual animals is difficult or impossible with conventional optical methods because of the inaccessibility of mouse embryos inside the maternal uterus. To address this problem, we present a method of imaging the mouse embryo from stages as early as embryonic day (E)10.5, close to the onset of organogenesis in most physiological systems. This method uses a self-gated MRI protocol, combined with image registration, to obtain whole-embryo high-resolution (100 µm isotropic) three-dimensional images. Using this approach, we demonstrate high contrast in the cerebral vasculature, limbs, spine and central nervous system without the use of contrast agents. These results indicate the potential of MRI for the longitudinal imaging of developing mouse embryos in utero and for future applications in analyzing mutant mouse phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prodromos Parasoglou
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cesar A Berrios-Otero
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brian J Nieman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel H Turnbull
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Correspondence to: Daniel H. Turnbull, PhD, Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 540 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016,
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26
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Norris FC, Betts-Henderson J, Wells JA, Cleary JO, Siow BM, Walker-Samuel S, McCue K, Salomoni P, Scambler PJ, Lythgoe MF. Enhanced tissue differentiation in the developing mouse brain using magnetic resonance micro-histology. Magn Reson Med 2012; 70:1380-8. [DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2012] [Revised: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca C. Norris
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and EXperimental Biology (CoMPLEX); University College London; UK
| | | | - Jack A. Wells
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
| | - Jon O. Cleary
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering; University College London; UK
| | - Bernard M. Siow
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
- Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Computer Science; Centre for Medical Image Computing; University College London; UK
| | - Simon Walker-Samuel
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
| | - Karen McCue
- Molecular Medicine Unit; UCL Institute of Child Health; University College London; UK
| | - Paolo Salomoni
- Samantha Dickson Brain Cancer Unit; UCL Cancer Institute; London UK
| | - Peter J. Scambler
- Molecular Medicine Unit; UCL Institute of Child Health; University College London; UK
| | - Mark F. Lythgoe
- Department of Medicine and UCL Institute of Child Health; Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging; University College London; UK
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27
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Chung C, Jalali S, Foltz W, Burrell K, Wildgoose P, Lindsay P, Graves C, Camphausen K, Milosevic M, Jaffray D, Zadeh G, Ménard C. Imaging biomarker dynamics in an intracranial murine glioma study of radiation and antiangiogenic therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2012; 85:805-12. [PMID: 22929856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2012.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2012] [Revised: 06/24/2012] [Accepted: 07/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a growing need for noninvasive biomarkers to guide individualized spatiotemporal delivery of radiation therapy (RT) and antiangiogenic (AA) therapy for brain tumors. This study explored early biomarkers of response to RT and the AA agent sunitinib (SU), in a murine intracranial glioma model, using serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS AND MATERIALS Mice with MRI-visible tumors were stratified by tumor size into 4 therapy arms: control, RT, SU, and SU plus RT (SURT). Single-fraction conformal RT was delivered using MRI and on-line cone beam computed tomography (CT) guidance. Serial MR images (T2-weighted, diffusion, dynamic contrast-enhanced and gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted scans) were acquired biweekly to evaluate tumor volume, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and tumor perfusion and permeability responses (K(trans), K(ep)). RESULTS Mice in all treatment arms survived longer than those in control, with a median survival of 35 days for SURT (P<.0001) and 30 days for RT (P=.009) and SU (P=.01) mice vs 26 days for control mice. At Day 3, ADC rise was greater with RT than without (P=.002). Sunitinib treatment reduced tumor perfusion/permeability values with mean K(trans) reduction of 27.6% for SU (P=.04) and 26.3% for SURT (P=.04) mice and mean K(ep) reduction of 38.1% for SU (P=.01) and 27.3% for SURT (P=.02) mice. The magnitude of individual mouse ADC responses at Days 3 and 7 correlated with subsequent tumor growth rate R values of -0.878 (P=.002) and -0.80 (P=.01), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Early quantitative changes in diffusion and perfusion MRI measures reflect treatment responses soon after starting therapy and thereby raise the potential for these imaging biomarkers to guide adaptive and potentially individualized therapy approaches in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Chung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Health Network-Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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28
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Laufer J, Norris F, Cleary J, Zhang E, Treeby B, Cox B, Johnson P, Scambler P, Lythgoe M, Beard P. In vivo photoacoustic imaging of mouse embryos. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2012; 17:061220. [PMID: 22734750 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.17.6.061220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The ability to noninvasively image embryonic vascular anatomy in mouse models is an important requirement for characterizing the development of the normal cardiovascular system and malformations in the heart and vascular supply. Photoacoustic imaging, which can provide high resolution non invasive images of the vasculature based upon optical absorption by endogenous hemoglobin, is well suited to this application. In this study, photoacoustic images of mouse embryos were obtained ex vivo and in vivo. The images show intricate details of the embryonic vascular system to depths of up to 10 mm, which allowed whole embryos to be imaged in situ. To achieve this, an all-optical photoacoustic scanner and a novel time reversal image reconstruction algorithm, which provide deep tissue imaging capability while maintaining high spatial resolution and contrast were employed. This technology may find application as an imaging tool for preclinical embryo studies in developmental biology as well as more generally in preclinical and clinical medicine for studying pathologies characterized by changes in the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Laufer
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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Kim E, Stamatelos S, Cebulla J, Bhujwalla ZM, Popel AS, Pathak AP. Multiscale imaging and computational modeling of blood flow in the tumor vasculature. Ann Biomed Eng 2012; 40:2425-41. [PMID: 22565817 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-012-0585-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The evolution in our understanding of tumor angiogenesis has been the result of pioneering imaging and computational modeling studies spanning the endothelial cell, microvasculature and tissue levels. Many of these primary data on the tumor vasculature are in the form of images from pre-clinical tumor models that provide a wealth of qualitative and quantitative information in many dimensions and across different spatial scales. However, until recently, the visualization of changes in the tumor vasculature across spatial scales remained a challenge due to a lack of techniques for integrating micro- and macroscopic imaging data. Furthermore, the paucity of three-dimensional (3-D) tumor vascular data in conjunction with the challenges in obtaining such data from patients presents a serious hurdle for the development and validation of predictive, multiscale computational models of tumor angiogenesis. In this review, we discuss the development of multiscale models of tumor angiogenesis, new imaging techniques capable of reproducing the 3-D tumor vascular architecture with high fidelity, and the emergence of "image-based models" of tumor blood flow and molecular transport. Collectively, these developments are helping us gain a fundamental understanding of the cellular and molecular regulation of tumor angiogenesis that will benefit the development of new cancer therapies. Eventually, we expect this exciting integration of multiscale imaging and mathematical modeling to have widespread application beyond the tumor vasculature to other diseases involving a pathological vasculature, such as stroke and spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Bartelle BB, Berríos-Otero CA, Rodriguez JJ, Friedland AE, Aristizábal O, Turnbull DH. Novel genetic approach for in vivo vascular imaging in mice. Circ Res 2012; 110:938-47. [PMID: 22374133 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.111.254375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The formation and maintenance of a functional vasculature is essential for normal embryonic development, and genetic changes that affect the vasculature underlie pathogenesis in many human diseases. In vivo imaging in mouse models is required to understand the full complexity of mammalian vascular formation, which is a dynamic and 3-dimensional process. Optical microscopy of genetically expressed fluorescent reporter proteins offers high resolution but limited depth of penetration in vivo. Conversely, there are a plethora of molecular probes for alternative in vivo vascular imaging modalities, but few options for genetic control of contrast enhancement. OBJECTIVE To develop a reporter system for multimodal imaging of genetic processes involved in mammalian vascular biology. METHODS AND RESULTS To approach this problem, we developed an optimal tagging system based on Biotag-BirA technology. In the resulting Biotag reporter system, coexpression of 2 interacting proteins results in biotin labeling of cell membranes, thus enabling multimodal imaging with "avidinated" probes. To assess this approach for in vivo imaging, we generated transgenic mice that expressed the Biotag-BirA transgene from a minimal Tie2 promoter. A variety of imaging methods were used to show the utility of this approach for quantitative analysis in embryonic and adult models of vascular development, using intravascular injection of avidinated probes for near infrared, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS The present results demonstrate the versatility of the Biotag system for studies of vascular biology in genetically engineered mice, providing a robust approach for multimodal in vivo imaging of genetic processes in the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin B Bartelle
- Kimmel Center for Biology & Medicine at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 540 First Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
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31
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Powell KA, Wilson D. 3-dimensional imaging modalities for phenotyping genetically engineered mice. Vet Pathol 2011; 49:106-15. [PMID: 22146851 DOI: 10.1177/0300985811429814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
A variety of 3-dimensional (3D) digital imaging modalities are available for whole-body assessment of genetically engineered mice: magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM), X-ray microcomputed tomography (microCT), optical projection tomography (OPT), episcopic and cryoimaging, and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM). Embryo and adult mouse phenotyping can be accomplished at microscopy or near microscopy spatial resolutions using these modalities. MRM and microCT are particularly well-suited for evaluating structural information at the organ level, whereas episcopic and OPT imaging provide structural and functional information from molecular fluorescence imaging at the cellular level. UBM can be used to monitor embryonic development longitudinally in utero. Specimens are not significantly altered during preparation, and structures can be viewed in their native orientations. Technologies for rapid automated data acquisition and high-throughput phenotyping have been developed and continually improve as this exciting field evolves.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Powell
- Small Animal Imaging Shared Resource, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
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32
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Nieman BJ, Wong MD, Henkelman RM. Genes into geometry: imaging for mouse development in 3D. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2011; 21:638-46. [PMID: 21907568 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2011.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian development is a sophisticated program coordinated by a complex set of genetic and physiological factors. Alterations in anatomy or morphology provide intrinsic measures of progress in or deviations from this program. Emerging three-dimensional imaging methods now allow for more sophisticated morphological assessment than ever before, enabling comprehensive phenotyping, visualization of anatomical context and patterns, automated and quantitative morphological analysis, as well as improved understanding of the developmental time course. Furthermore, these imaging tools are becoming increasingly available and will consequently play a prominent role in elucidating the factors that direct and influence mammalian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Nieman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Pathak AP, Kim E, Zhang J, Jones MV. Three-dimensional imaging of the mouse neurovasculature with magnetic resonance microscopy. PLoS One 2011; 6:e22643. [PMID: 21818357 PMCID: PMC3144917 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 06/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the three-dimensional (3D) architecture of blood vessels in the brain is crucial because the progression of various neuropathologies ranging from Alzheimer's disease to brain tumors involves anomalous blood vessels. The challenges in obtaining such data from patients, in conjunction with development of mouse models of neuropathology, have made the murine brain indispensable for investigating disease induced neurovascular changes. Here we describe a novel method for “whole brain” 3D mapping of murine neurovasculature using magnetic resonance microscopy (μMRI). This approach preserves the vascular and white matter tract architecture, and can be combined with complementary MRI contrast mechanisms such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to examine the interplay between the vasculature and white matter reorganization that often characterizes neuropathologies. Following validation with micro computed tomography (μCT) and optical microscopy, we demonstrate the utility of this method by: (i) combined 3D imaging of angiogenesis and white matter reorganization in both, invasive and non-invasive brain tumor models; (ii) characterizing the morphological heterogeneity of the vascular phenotype in the murine brain; and (iii) conducting “multi-scale” imaging of brain tumor angiogenesis, wherein we directly compared in vivo MRI blood volume measurements with ex vivo vasculature data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind P Pathak
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America.
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Ulrich F, Ma LH, Baker RG, Torres-Vázquez J. Neurovascular development in the embryonic zebrafish hindbrain. Dev Biol 2011; 357:134-51. [PMID: 21745463 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2011.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2010] [Revised: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The brain is made of billions of highly metabolically active neurons whose activities provide the seat for cognitive, affective, sensory and motor functions. The cerebral vasculature meets the brain's unusually high demand for oxygen and glucose by providing it with the largest blood supply of any organ. Accordingly, disorders of the cerebral vasculature, such as congenital vascular malformations, stroke and tumors, compromise neuronal function and survival and often have crippling or fatal consequences. Yet, the assembly of the cerebral vasculature is a process that remains poorly understood. Here we exploit the physical and optical accessibility of the zebrafish embryo to characterize cerebral vascular development within the embryonic hindbrain. We find that this process is primarily driven by endothelial cell migration and follows a two-step sequence. First, perineural vessels with stereotypical anatomies are formed along the ventro-lateral surface of the neuroectoderm. Second, angiogenic sprouts derived from a subset of perineural vessels migrate into the hindbrain to form the intraneural vasculature. We find that these angiogenic sprouts reproducibly penetrate into the hindbrain via the rhombomere centers, where differentiated neurons reside, and that specific rhombomeres are invariably vascularized first. While the anatomy of intraneural vessels is variable from animal to animal, some aspects of the connectivity of perineural and intraneural vessels occur reproducibly within particular hindbrain locales. Using a chemical inhibitor of VEGF signaling we determine stage-specific requirements for this pathway in the formation of the hindbrain vasculature. Finally, we show that a subset of hindbrain vessels is aligned and/or in very close proximity to stereotypical neuron clusters and axon tracts. Using endothelium-deficient cloche mutants we show that the endothelium is dispensable for the organization and maintenance of these stereotypical neuron clusters and axon tracts in the early hindbrain. However, the cerebellum's upper rhombic lip and the optic tectum are abnormal in clo. Overall, this study provides a detailed, multi-stage characterization of early zebrafish hindbrain neurovascular development with cellular resolution up to the third day of age. This work thus serves as a useful reference for the neurovascular characterization of mutants, morphants and drug-treated embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Ulrich
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Skirball Institute of Molecular Medicine, New York City, New York 10016, USA.
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Abstract
Abnormal vascular phenotypes have been implicated in neuropathologies ranging from Alzheimer's disease to brain tumors. The development of transgenic mouse models of such diseases has created a crucial need for characterizing the murine neurovasculature. Although histologic techniques are excellent for imaging the microvasculature at submicron resolutions, they offer only limited coverage. It is also challenging to reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) vasculature and other structures, such as white matter tracts, after tissue sectioning. Here, we describe a novel method for 3D whole-brain mapping of the murine vasculature using magnetic resonance microscopy (μMRI), and its application to a preclinical brain tumor model. The 3D vascular architecture was characterized by six morphologic parameters: vessel length, vessel radius, microvessel density, length per unit volume, fractional blood volume, and tortuosity. Region-of-interest analysis showed significant differences in the vascular phenotype between the tumor and the contralateral brain, as well as between postinoculation day 12 and day 17 tumors. These results unequivocally show the feasibility of using μMRI to characterize the vascular phenotype of brain tumors. Finally, we show that combining these vascular data with coregistered images acquired with diffusion-weighted MRI provides a new tool for investigating the relationship between angiogenesis and concomitant changes in the brain tumor microenvironment.
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Berrios-Otero CA, Nieman BJ, Parasoglou P, Turnbull DH. In utero phenotyping of mouse embryonic vasculature with MRI. Magn Reson Med 2011; 67:251-7. [PMID: 21590728 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.22991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2011] [Revised: 03/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The vasculature is the earliest developing organ in mammals and its proper formation is critical for embryonic survival. MRI approaches have been used previously to analyze complex three-dimensional vascular patterns and defects in fixed mouse embryos. Extending vascular imaging to an in utero setting with potential for longitudinal studies would enable dynamic analysis of the vasculature in normal and genetically engineered mouse embryos, in vivo. In this study, we employed an in utero MRI approach that corrects for motion, using a combination of interleaved gated acquisition and serial coregistration of rapidly acquired three-dimensional images. We tested the potential of this method by acquiring and analyzing images from wildtype and Gli2 mutant embryos, demonstrating a number of Gli2 phenotypes in the brain and cerebral vasculature. These results show that in utero MRI can be used for in vivo phenotype analysis of a variety of mutant mouse embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar A Berrios-Otero
- The Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Abstract
Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and magnetic resonance microimaging (micro-MRI) provide noninvasive, high-resolution images in mouse embryos and neonates, enabling volumetric and functional analyses of phenotypes, including longitudinal imaging of individual mice over critical stages of in utero and early-postnatal development. In this chapter, we describe the underlying principles of UBM and micro-MRI, including the advantages and limitations of these approaches for studies of mouse development, and providing a number of examples to illustrate their use. To date, most imaging studies have focused on the developing nervous and cardiovascular systems, which are also reflected in the examples shown in this chapter, but we also discuss the future application of these methods to other organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Nieman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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