Magnetic resonance imaging of embryonic and fetal development in model systems

We give an overview of the applications and methods of high-resolution anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the study of embryonic and fetal development in animal models. Challenges associated with performing in utero studies are described. Recent in utero images in mouse and in nonhuman primates are presented. Results using magnetic resonance microscopy in fixed mouse embryos and in amphibian embryos in vivo are reviewed. We discuss how studies of pregnancy in animal models aid in the translation of innovative new MRI techniques to clinical applications.