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Reyne N, Smith R, Cmielewski P, Eikelis N, Lawrence M, Louise J, Pirakalathanan P, Parsons D, Donnelley M. Assessment of respiratory mechanics and X-ray velocimetry functional imaging in two cystic fibrosis rat models. Sci Rep 2024; 14:21646. [PMID: 39284856 PMCID: PMC11405763 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71632-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Two cystic fibrosis (CF) rat models, one carrying the common Phe508del mutation and the other a nonsense cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation (knockout) were previously characterised. Although relevant CFTR mRNA reductions were present in the lung, no overt CF lung disease was observed. This study used flexiVent lung mechanic assessment and regional ventilation assessment via X-ray velocimetry (XV) functional imaging to assess the lung phenotype in both models. To determine the sensitivity of XV regional ventilation imaging, the effect of a localised physical obstruction (delivery of agar beads to part of the lungs) on lung ventilation was examined. At baseline, Phe508del and knockout CF rats had a lower inspiratory capacity, total respiratory system compliance, and static compliance than wildtype rats. Following agar bead delivery all XV ventilation parameters were altered, with substantial increases in poorly ventilated regions and ventilation heterogeneity. XV ventilation maps accurately identified locations of bead-induced airflow changes. Despite unremarkable lung histopathology, this study indicated that CF rats display altered respiratory mechanics, with CF rats needing to exert additional effort to expand and deflate their lungs due to increased stiffness. This study demonstrated the utility of XV imaging providing spatial lung ventilation information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Reyne
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Ronan Smith
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Patricia Cmielewski
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Mark Lawrence
- SCIREQ Scientific Respiratory Equipment Inc, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jennie Louise
- Biostatistics Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - David Parsons
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Martin Donnelley
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Klos A, Bailly L, Rolland du Roscoat S, Orgéas L, Henrich Bernardoni N, Broche L, King A. Optimising 4D imaging of fast-oscillating structures using X-ray microtomography with retrospective gating. Sci Rep 2024; 14:20499. [PMID: 39227377 PMCID: PMC11372196 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68684-1] [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: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Imaging the internal architecture of fast-vibrating structures at micrometer scale and kilohertz frequencies poses great challenges for numerous applications, including the study of biological oscillators, mechanical testing of materials, and process engineering. Over the past decade, X-ray microtomography with retrospective gating has shown very promising advances in meeting these challenges. However, breakthroughs are still expected in acquisition and reconstruction procedures to keep improving the spatiotemporal resolution, and study the mechanics of fast-vibrating multiscale structures. Thereby, this works aims to improve this imaging technique by minimising streaking and motion blur artefacts through the optimisation of experimental parameters. For that purpose, we have coupled a numerical approach relying on tomography simulation with vibrating particles with known and ideal 3D geometry (micro-spheres or fibres) with experimental campaigns. These were carried out on soft composites, imaged in synchrotron X-ray beamlines while oscillating up to 400 Hz, thanks to a custom-developed vibromechanical device. This approach yields homogeneous angular sampling of projections and gives reliable predictions of image quality degradation due to motion blur. By overcoming several technical and scientific barriers limiting the feasibility and reproducibility of such investigations, we provide guidelines to enhance gated-CT 4D imaging for the analysis of heterogeneous, high-frequency oscillating materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Klos
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000, Grenoble, France
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, GIPSA-lab, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Lucie Bailly
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000, Grenoble, France.
| | | | - Laurent Orgéas
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Ludovic Broche
- ID19 beamline, ESRF - The European Synchrotron, CS 40220, 38043, Grenoble, France
| | - Andrew King
- PSICHE beamline, Synchrotron SOLEIL, F-91190, Saint-Aubin, France
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Bruorton M, Donnelley M, Goddard T, O'Connor A, Parsons D, Phillips J, Carson-Chahhoud K, Tai A. Pilot study of paediatric regional lung function assessment via X-ray velocimetry (XV) imaging in children with normal lungs and in children with cystic fibrosis. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080034. [PMID: 38316593 PMCID: PMC10860032 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting autosomal recessive genetic condition. It is caused by mutations in the gene that encodes for a chloride and bicarbonate conducting transmembrane channel. X-ray velocimetry (XV) is a novel form of X-ray imaging that can generate lung ventilation data through the breathing cycle. XV technology has been validated in multiple animal models, including the β-ENaC mouse model of CF lung disease. It has since been assessed in early-phase clinical trials in adult human subjects; however, there is a paucity of data in the paediatric cohort, including in CF. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the feasibility of performing a single-centre cohort study in paediatric patients with CF and in those with normal lungs to demonstrate the appropriateness of proceeding with further studies of XV in these cohorts. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a cross-sectional, single-centre, pilot study. It will recruit children aged 3-18 years to have XV lung imaging performed, as well as paired pulmonary function testing. The study will aim to recruit 20 children without CF with normal lungs and 20 children with CF. The primary outcome will be the feasibility of recruiting children and performing XV testing. Secondary outcomes will include comparisons between XV and current assessments of pulmonary function and structure. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This project has ethical approval granted by The Women's and Children's Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC ID 2021/HRE00396). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12623000109606.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bruorton
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Martin Donnelley
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thomas Goddard
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Antonia O'Connor
- Sleep Department, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Parsons
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jessica Phillips
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kristin Carson-Chahhoud
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Tai
- Adelaide Medical School and The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Department, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Siddharthan T, Grealis K, Kirkness JP, Ötvös T, Stefanovski D, Tombleson A, Dalzell M, Gonzalez E, Nakrani KB, Wenger D, Lester MG, Richmond BW, Fouras A, Punjabi NM. Quantifying ventilation by X-ray velocimetry in healthy adults. Respir Res 2023; 24:215. [PMID: 37649012 PMCID: PMC10469820 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02517-z] [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] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE X-ray velocimetry (XV) has been utilized in preclinical models to assess lung motion and regional ventilation, though no studies have compared XV-derived physiologic parameters to measures derived through conventional means. OBJECTIVES To assess agreement between XV-analysis of fluoroscopic lung images and pitot tube flowmeter measures of ventilation. METHODS XV- and pitot tube-derived ventilatory parameters were compared during tidal breathing and with bilevel-assisted breathing. Levels of agreement were assessed using the Bland-Altman analysis. Mixed models were used to characterize the association between XV- and pitot tube-derived values and optimize XV-derived values for higher ventilatory volumes. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Twenty-four healthy volunteers were assessed during tidal breathing and 11 were reassessed with increased minute ventilation with bilevel-assisted breathing. No clinically significant differences were observed between the two methods for respiratory rate (average Δ: 0.58; 95% limits of agreement: -1.55, 2.71) or duty cycle (average Δ: 0.02; 95% limits of agreement: 0.01, 0.03). Tidal volumes and flow rates measured using XV were lower than those measured using the pitot tube flowmeter, particularly at the higher volume ranges with bilevel-assisted breathing. Under these conditions, a mixed-model based adjustment was applied to the XV-derived values of tidal volume and flow rate to obtain closer agreement with the pitot tube-derived values. CONCLUSION Radiographically obtained measures of ventilation with XV demonstrate a high degree of correlation with parameters of ventilation. If the accuracy of XV were also confirmed for assessing the regional distribution of ventilation, it would provide information that goes beyond the scope of conventional pulmonary function tests or static radiographic assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trishul Siddharthan
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Kyle Grealis
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alex Tombleson
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Molly Dalzell
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ernesto Gonzalez
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kinjal Bhatt Nakrani
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Michael G Lester
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Bradley W Richmond
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Naresh M Punjabi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Navarrete-León C, Doherty A, Savvidis S, Gerli MFM, Piredda G, Astolfo A, Bate D, Cipiccia S, Hagen CK, Olivo A, Endrizzi M. X-ray phase-contrast microtomography of soft tissues using a compact laboratory system with two-directional sensitivity. OPTICA 2023; 10:880-887. [PMID: 37841216 PMCID: PMC10575607 DOI: 10.1364/optica.487270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
X-ray microtomography is a nondestructive, three-dimensional inspection technique applied across a vast range of fields and disciplines, ranging from research to industrial, encompassing engineering, biology, and medical research. Phase-contrast imaging extends the domain of application of x-ray microtomography to classes of samples that exhibit weak attenuation, thus appearing with poor contrast in standard x-ray imaging. Notable examples are low-atomic-number materials, like carbon-fiber composites, soft matter, and biological soft tissues. We report on a compact and cost-effective system for x-ray phase-contrast microtomography. The system features high sensitivity to phase gradients and high resolution, requires a low-power sealed x-ray tube, a single optical element, and fits in a small footprint. It is compatible with standard x-ray detector technologies: in our experiments, we have observed that single-photon counting offered higher angular sensitivity, whereas flat panels provided a larger field of view. The system is benchmarked against known-material phantoms, and its potential for soft-tissue three-dimensional imaging is demonstrated on small-animal organs: a piglet esophagus and a rat heart. We believe that the simplicity of the setup we are proposing, combined with its robustness and sensitivity, will facilitate accessing quantitative x-ray phase-contrast microtomography as a research tool across disciplines, including tissue engineering, materials science, and nondestructive testing in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Navarrete-León
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Adam Doherty
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Savvas Savvidis
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mattia F. M. Gerli
- UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Section, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Giovanni Piredda
- Research Center for Microtechnology, Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences, Hochschulstr. 1, 6850, Dornbirn, Austria
| | - Alberto Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - David Bate
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd, Tring, Herts, HP23 4JX, UK
| | - Silvia Cipiccia
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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6
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Kirkness JP, Dusting J, Eikelis N, Pirakalathanan P, DeMarco J, Shiao SL, Fouras A. Association of x-ray velocimetry (XV) ventilation analysis compared to spirometry. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2023; 5:1148310. [PMID: 37440838 PMCID: PMC10335741 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2023.1148310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction X-ray Velocimetry (XV) ventilation analysis is a 4-dimensional imaging-based method for quantifying regional ventilation, aiding in the assessment of lung function. We examined the performance characteristics of XV ventilation analysis by examining correlation to spirometry and measurement repeatability. Methods XV analysis was assessed in 27 patients receiving thoracic radiotherapy for non-lung cancer malignancies. Measurements were obtained pre-treatment and at 4 and 12-months post-treatment. XV metrics such as ventilation defect percent (VDP) and regional ventilation heterogeneity (VH) were compared to spirometry at each time point, using correlation analysis. Repeatability was assessed between multiple runs of the analysis algorithm, as well as between multiple breaths in the same patient. Change in VH and VDP in a case series over 12 months was used to determine effect size and estimate sample sizes for future studies. Results VDP and VH were found to significantly correlate with FEV1 and FEV1/FVC (range: -0.36 to -0.57; p < 0.05). Repeatability tests demonstrated that VDP and VH had less than 2% variability within runs and less than 8% change in metrics between breaths. Three cases were used to illustrate the advantage of XV over spirometry, where XV indicated a change in lung function that was either undetectable or delayed in detection by spirometry. Case A demonstrated an improvement in XV metrics over time despite stable spirometric values. Case B demonstrated a decline in XV metrics as early as 4-months, although spirometric values did not change until 12-months. Case C demonstrated a decline in XV metrics at 12 months post-treatment while spirometric values remained normal throughout the study. Based on the effect sizes in each case, sample sizes ranging from 10 to 38 patients would provide 90% power for future studies aiming to detect similar changes. Conclusions The performance and safety of XV analysis make it ideal for both clinical and research applications across most lung indications. Our results support continued research and provide a basis for powering future studies using XV as an endpoint to examine lung health and determine therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - John DeMarco
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Biomedical Sciences, Cedar-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Stephen L. Shiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Biomedical Sciences, Cedar-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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7
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Ahookhosh K, Vanoirbeek J, Vande Velde G. Lung function measurements in preclinical research: What has been done and where is it headed? Front Physiol 2023; 14:1130096. [PMID: 37035677 PMCID: PMC10073442 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1130096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the close interaction of lung morphology and functions, repeatable measurements of pulmonary function during longitudinal studies on lung pathophysiology and treatment efficacy have been a great area of interest for lung researchers. Spirometry, as a simple and quick procedure that depends on the maximal inspiration of the patient, is the most common lung function test in clinics that measures lung volumes against time. Similarly, in the preclinical area, plethysmography techniques offer lung functional parameters related to lung volumes. In the past few decades, many innovative techniques have been introduced for in vivo lung function measurements, while each one of these techniques has their own advantages and disadvantages. Before each experiment, depending on the sensitivity of the required pulmonary functional parameters, it should be decided whether an invasive or non-invasive approach is desired. On one hand, invasive techniques offer sensitive and specific readouts related to lung mechanics in anesthetized and tracheotomized animals at endpoints. On the other hand, non-invasive techniques allow repeatable lung function measurements in conscious, free-breathing animals with readouts related to the lung volumes. The biggest disadvantage of these standard techniques for lung function measurements is considering the lung as a single unit and providing only global readouts. However, recent advances in lung imaging modalities such as x-ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging opened new doors toward obtaining both anatomical and functional information from the same scan session, without the requirement for any extra pulmonary functional measurements, in more regional and non-invasive manners. Consequently, a new field of study called pulmonary functional imaging was born which focuses on introducing new techniques for regional quantification of lung function non-invasively using imaging-based techniques. This narrative review provides first an overview of both invasive and non-invasive conventional methods for lung function measurements, mostly focused on small animals for preclinical research, including discussions about their advantages and disadvantages. Then, we focus on those newly developed, non-invasive, imaging-based techniques that can provide either global or regional lung functional readouts at multiple time-points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Ahookhosh
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Vanoirbeek
- Centre of Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Greetje Vande Velde,
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8
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Asosingh K, Frimel M, Zlojutro V, Grant D, Stephens O, Wenger D, Fouras A, DiFilippo F, Erzurum S. Preclinical Four-Dimensional Functional Lung Imaging and Quantification of Regional Airflow: A New Standard in Lung Function Evaluation in Murine Models. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2022; 67:423-429. [PMID: 35687482 PMCID: PMC9564925 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0055ma] [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] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The current standard for lung function evaluation in murine models is based on forced oscillation technology, which provides a measure of the total airway function but cannot provide information on regional heterogeneity in function. Limited detection of regional airflow may contribute to a discontinuity between airway inflammation and airflow obstruction in models of asthma. Here, we describe quantification of regional airway function using novel dynamic quantitative imaging and analysis to quantify and visualize lung motion and regional pulmonary airflow in four dimensions (4D). Furthermore, temporo-spatial specific ventilation (ml/ml) is used to determine ventilation heterogeneity indices for lobar and sublobar regions, which are directly compared to ex vivo biological analyses in the same sublobar regions. In contrast, oscillation-based technology in murine genetic models of asthma have failed to demonstrate lung function change despite altered inflammation, whereas 4D functional lung imaging demonstrated diminished regional lung function in genetic models relative to wild-type mice. Quantitative functional lung imaging assists in localizing the regional effects of airflow. Our approach reveals repeatable and consistent differences in regional airflow between lung lobes in all models of asthma, suggesting that asthma is characterized by regional airway dysfunctions that are often not detectable in composite measures of lung function. 4D functional lung imaging technology has the potential to transform discovery and development in murine models by mapping out regional areas heterogeneously affected by the disease, thus deciphering pathobiology with greater precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kewal Asosingh
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity Lerner Research Institute and Respiratory Institute and
| | - Matthew Frimel
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity Lerner Research Institute and Respiratory Institute and
| | - Violetta Zlojutro
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity Lerner Research Institute and Respiratory Institute and
| | - Dillon Grant
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity Lerner Research Institute and Respiratory Institute and
| | | | - David Wenger
- 4DMedical Research and Development, Los Angeles, California
| | - Andreas Fouras
- 4DMedical Research and Development, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Serpil Erzurum
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity Lerner Research Institute and Respiratory Institute and
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio; and
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9
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Jung HW, Lee I, Lee SH, Morgan K, Parsons D, Donnelley M. Mucociliary Transit Assessment Using Automatic Tracking in Phase Contrast X-Ray Images of Live Mouse Nasal Airways. J Med Biol Eng 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40846-022-00718-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The rate of mucociliary transit (MCT) is an indicator of the hydration and health of the airways for cystic fibrosis (CF). To determine the effectiveness of cystic fibrosis respiratory therapies, we have developed a novel method to non-invasively quantify the local rate and patterns of MCT behaviour in vivo by using synchrotron phase contrast X-ray imaging (PCXI) to visualise the MCT motion of micron-sized spherical particles deposited onto the airway surfaces of live mice.
Methods
In this study the baseline MCT behaviour was assessed in the nasal airways of CFTR-null and normal mice which were then treated with hypertonic saline (HS) or mannitol. To assess MCT, the particle motion was tracked throughout the synchrotron PCXI sequences using fully-automated custom image analysis software.
Results
There was no significant difference in the MCT rate between normal and CFTR-null mice, but the analysis of MCT particle tracking showed that HS may have a longer duration of action in CFTR-null mice than in the normal mice.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that changes in MCT rate in CF and normal mouse nasal airways can be measured using PCXI and customised tracking software and used for assessing the effects of airway rehydrating pharmaceutical treatments.
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10
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Grubb BR, Livraghi-Butrico A. Animal models of cystic fibrosis in the era of highly effective modulator therapies. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 64:102235. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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11
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Flanagan F, Casey A, Reyes-Múgica M, Kurland G. Post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans in children. Paediatr Respir Rev 2022; 42:69-78. [PMID: 35562287 DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frances Flanagan
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 333 Longwood Ave, 5(th) Floor, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
| | - Alicia Casey
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 333 Longwood Ave, 5(th) Floor, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
| | - Miguel Reyes-Múgica
- Department of Pathology, UPMC Children's Hospital ofPittsburgh, One Children's Hospital Drive, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 1522, United States.
| | - Geoffrey Kurland
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States.
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12
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San José Estépar R. Artificial intelligence in functional imaging of the lung. Br J Radiol 2022; 95:20210527. [PMID: 34890215 PMCID: PMC9153712 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20210527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we perform advanced imaging. From high-resolution image reconstruction to predicting functional response from clinically acquired data, AI is promising to revolutionize clinical evaluation of lung performance, pushing the boundary in pulmonary functional imaging for patients suffering from respiratory conditions. In this review, we overview the current developments and expound on some of the encouraging new frontiers. We focus on the recent advances in machine learning and deep learning that enable reconstructing images, quantitating, and predicting functional responses of the lung. Finally, we shed light on the potential opportunities and challenges ahead in adopting AI for functional lung imaging in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl San José Estépar
- Applied Chest Imaging Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
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Virtual monoenergetic micro-CT imaging in mice with artificial intelligence. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2324. [PMID: 35149703 PMCID: PMC8837804 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06172-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro cone-beam computed tomography (µCBCT) imaging is of utmost importance for carrying out extensive preclinical research in rodents. The imaging of animals is an essential step prior to preclinical precision irradiation, but also in the longitudinal assessment of treatment outcomes. However, imaging artifacts such as beam hardening will occur due to the low energetic nature of the X-ray imaging beam (i.e., 60 kVp). Beam hardening artifacts are especially difficult to resolve in a ‘pancake’ imaging geometry with stationary source and detector, where the animal is rotated around its sagittal axis, and the X-ray imaging beam crosses a wide range of thicknesses. In this study, a seven-layer U-Net based network architecture (vMonoCT) is adopted to predict virtual monoenergetic X-ray projections from polyenergetic X-ray projections. A Monte Carlo simulation model is developed to compose a training dataset of 1890 projection pairs. Here, a series of digital anthropomorphic mouse phantoms was derived from the reference DigiMouse phantom as simulation geometry. vMonoCT was trained on 1512 projection pairs (= 80%) and tested on 378 projection pairs (= 20%). The percentage error calculated for the test dataset was 1.7 ± 0.4%. Additionally, the vMonoCT model was evaluated on a retrospective projection dataset of five mice and one frozen cadaver. It was found that beam hardening artifacts were minimized after image reconstruction of the vMonoCT-corrected projections, and that anatomically incorrect gradient errors were corrected in the cranium up to 15%. Our results disclose the potential of Artificial Intelligence to enhance the µCBCT image quality in biomedical applications. vMonoCT is expected to contribute to the reproducibility of quantitative preclinical applications such as precision irradiations in X-ray cabinets, and to the evaluation of longitudinal imaging data in extensive preclinical studies.
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Khan A, Markus A, Rittmann T, Albers J, Alves F, Hülsmann S, Dullin C. Simple low dose radiography allows precise lung volume assessment in mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4163. [PMID: 33602964 PMCID: PMC7893164 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83319-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
X-ray based lung function (XLF) as a planar method uses dramatically less X-ray dose than computed tomography (CT) but so far lacked the ability to relate its parameters to pulmonary air volume. The purpose of this study was to calibrate the functional constituents of XLF that are biomedically decipherable and directly comparable to that of micro-CT and whole-body plethysmography (WBP). Here, we developed a unique set-up for simultaneous assessment of lung function and volume using XLF, micro-CT and WBP on healthy mice. Our results reveal a strong correlation of lung volumes obtained from radiographic XLF and micro-CT and demonstrate that XLF is superior to WBP in sensitivity and precision to assess lung volumes. Importantly, XLF measurement uses only a fraction of the radiation dose and acquisition time required for CT. Therefore, the redefined XLF approach is a promising tool for preclinical longitudinal studies with a substantial potential of clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amara Khan
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andrea Markus
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Rittmann
- 4th Physical Institute - Solids and Nanostructures, University of Göttingen, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jonas Albers
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Clinic for Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Swen Hülsmann
- Clinic for Anesthesiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Dullin
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
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Parsons D, Donnelley M. Will Airway Gene Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis Improve Lung Function? New Imaging Technologies Can Help Us Find Out. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:973-984. [PMID: 32718206 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The promise of genetic therapies has turned into reality in recent years, with new first-line treatments for fatal diseases now available to patients. The development and testing of genetic therapies for respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) has also progressed. The addition of gene editing to the genetic agent toolbox, and its early success in other organ systems, suggests we will see rapid expansion of gene correction options for CF in the future. Although substantial progress has been made in creating techniques and genetic agents that can be highly effective for CF correction in vitro, physiologically relevant functional in vivo changes have been largely prevented by poor delivery efficiency within the lungs. Somewhat hidden from view, however, is the absence of reliable, accurate, detailed, and noninvasive outcome measures that can detect subtle disease and treatment effects in the lungs of humans or animal models. The ability to measure the fundamental function of the lung-ventilation, the effective transport of air throughout the lung-has been constrained by the available measurement technologies. Without sensitive measurement methods, it is difficult to quantify the effectiveness of genetic therapies for CF. The mainstays of lung health assessment are spirometry, which cannot provide adequate disease localization and is not sensitive enough to detect small early changes in disease; and computed tomography, which provides structural rather than functional information. Magnetic resonance imaging using hyperpolarized gases is increasingly useful for lung ventilation assessment, and it removes the radiation risk that accompanies X-ray methods. A new lung imaging technique, X-ray velocimetry, can now offer highly detailed regional lung ventilation information well suited to the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring needs of CF lung disease, particularly after the application of genetic therapies. In this review, we discuss the options now available for imaging-based lung function measurement in the generation and use of genetic and other therapies for treating CF lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Parsons
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Martin Donnelley
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
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Günther B, Gradl R, Jud C, Eggl E, Huang J, Kulpe S, Achterhold K, Gleich B, Dierolf M, Pfeiffer F. The versatile X-ray beamline of the Munich Compact Light Source: design, instrumentation and applications. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2020; 27:1395-1414. [PMID: 32876618 PMCID: PMC7467334 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577520008309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Inverse Compton scattering provides means to generate low-divergence partially coherent quasi-monochromatic, i.e. synchrotron-like, X-ray radiation on a laboratory scale. This enables the transfer of synchrotron techniques into university or industrial environments. Here, the Munich Compact Light Source is presented, which is such a compact synchrotron radiation facility based on an inverse Compton X-ray source (ICS). The recent improvements of the ICS are reported first and then the various experimental techniques which are most suited to the ICS installed at the Technical University of Munich are reviewed. For the latter, a multipurpose X-ray application beamline with two end-stations was designed. The beamline's design and geometry are presented in detail including the different set-ups as well as the available detector options. Application examples of the classes of experiments that can be performed are summarized afterwards. Among them are dynamic in vivo respiratory imaging, propagation-based phase-contrast imaging, grating-based phase-contrast imaging, X-ray microtomography, K-edge subtraction imaging and X-ray spectroscopy. Finally, plans to upgrade the beamline in order to enhance its capabilities are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Günther
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Regine Gradl
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Christoph Jud
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Elena Eggl
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Juanjuan Huang
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Stephanie Kulpe
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Klaus Achterhold
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Bernhard Gleich
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Martin Dierolf
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Franz Pfeiffer
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Munich School of BioEngineering, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 11, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Straße 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
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Quantification of muco-obstructive lung disease variability in mice via laboratory X-ray velocimetry. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10859. [PMID: 32616726 PMCID: PMC7331693 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67633-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
To effectively diagnose, monitor and treat respiratory disease clinicians should be able to accurately assess the spatial distribution of airflow across the fine structure of lung. This capability would enable any decline or improvement in health to be located and measured, allowing improved treatment options to be designed. Current lung function assessment methods have many limitations, including the inability to accurately localise the origin of global changes within the lung. However, X-ray velocimetry (XV) has recently been demonstrated to be a sophisticated and non-invasive lung function measurement tool that is able to display the full dynamics of airflow throughout the lung over the natural breathing cycle. In this study we present two developments in XV analysis. Firstly, we show the ability of laboratory-based XV to detect the patchy nature of cystic fibrosis (CF)-like disease in β-ENaC mice. Secondly, we present a technique for numerical quantification of CF-like disease in mice that can delineate between two major modes of disease symptoms. We propose this analytical model as a simple, easy-to-interpret approach, and one capable of being readily applied to large quantities of data generated in XV imaging. Together these advances show the power of XV for assessing local airflow changes. We propose that XV should be considered as a novel lung function measurement tool for lung therapeutics development in small animal models, for CF and for other muco-obstructive diseases.
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