In vivo imaging in humanized mice.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical imaging
• Translational research
• Small-animal models

Background:

• Radiological and optical imaging modalities are adapted for small-animal studies.
• Techniques include ultrasound, CT, MRI, PET, SPECT, bioluminescence imaging (BLI), and fluorescence imaging (FLI).
• Longitudinal studies in living models are crucial for clinical application development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current small-animal imaging technologies.
• To discuss the advantages and limitations of existing imaging tools.
• To introduce a novel in vivo imaging system and a humanized mouse model.

Main Methods:

• Overview of established radiological modalities (CT, MRI, PET, SPECT) and optical techniques (BLI, FLI).
• Discussion of spatial and temporal resolution challenges in current imaging tools.
• Introduction of a newly developed humanized mouse and in vivo imaging system.

Main Results:

• Current imaging techniques offer valuable insights but have resolution limitations.
• The developed humanized mouse and novel imaging system aim to overcome these limitations.
• Real-time observations of reconstructs and clinical manifestations are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Small-animal imaging is essential for translational research, bridging preclinical studies and clinical applications.
• Existing imaging technologies have drawbacks, necessitating advancements.
• The novel humanized mouse and in vivo imaging system represent a step forward in small-animal research capabilities.