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In utero time-course assessment of mouse embryo development using high resolution magnetic resonance imaging
1INSERM ERIT-M 0104, Ingénierie de la Vectorisation, Université d'Angers, 10 rue Boquel, 49100 Angers, France.
Abstract:
Magnetic resonance microscopy, a non-invasive imaging technique was used for a longitudinal follow-up of mouse embryonic development in utero and for the assessment of embryonic kidney function using 50 nm magnetite dextran particles. Even though the morphologic proton images obtained were still far from classical histological slices quality, an in-plan resolution of 195 microm was achieved for a slice thickness of 800 microm. Mouse embryos sub-structures such as the fourth ventricle, the mesencephalic vesicle, the aorta or the liver can be revealed as early as E11/12. Heart, diaphragm, spinal cord, third, fourth and lateral ventricles were unambiguously seen at E13/14; whereas skeleton, tail, kidney and digit can only be seen from E15/16. Kidney and bladder were certainly identified from E16 on. MR microscopy offers a possibility for in utero phenotyping of mice and can therefore be a powerful tool for post-genomic applications.
Insights
Magnetic resonance microscopy enables non-invasive, in utero tracking of mouse embryonic development. This technique visualizes fetal structures and kidney function, aiding in post-genomic phenotyping.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Developmental Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Accurate phenotyping of mouse embryos is crucial for understanding developmental biology and post-genomic applications.
- Non-invasive imaging techniques are needed for longitudinal studies of embryonic development in utero.
- Assessing embryonic kidney function requires high-resolution imaging methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM) for in utero phenotyping of mouse embryos.
- To assess the capability of MRM in visualizing embryonic sub-structures and kidney function.
- To determine the earliest developmental stages at which specific embryonic organs are identifiable using MRM.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic resonance microscopy was employed for longitudinal follow-up of mouse embryonic development.
- 50 nm magnetite dextran particles were used to assess embryonic kidney function.
- Morphologic proton images were acquired with an in-plane resolution of 195 micrometers and slice thickness of 800 micrometers.
Main Results:
- MRM visualized key embryonic sub-structures from E11/12, including the fourth ventricle, mesencephalic vesicle, aorta, and liver.
- Heart, diaphragm, spinal cord, and ventricles were clearly identified at E13/14.
- Skeleton, tail, kidney, and digits became visible from E15/16, with kidney and bladder definitively identified from E16 onwards.
Conclusions:
- MR microscopy is a powerful non-invasive tool for in utero phenotyping of mouse embryos.
- This technique allows for longitudinal assessment of embryonic development and organogenesis.
- MRM holds significant potential for post-genomic applications requiring detailed embryonic analysis.