In vivo small-animal imaging using micro-CT and digital subtraction angiography

Area of Science:

• Preclinical imaging
• Medical imaging technologies
• Small-animal research

Background:

• Small-animal imaging is vital for disease mechanism understanding, phenotyping, and drug discovery.
• Translating human imaging techniques to small animal models presents significant challenges.
• X-ray based modalities are frequently employed in preclinical research settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review in vivo X-ray based small-animal imaging techniques.
• To focus on in vivo micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA).
• To discuss principles, technologies, image quality, and applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of in vivo micro-CT principles and technologies.
• Review of in vivo digital subtraction angiography (DSA) principles and technologies.
• Analysis of image quality parameters and application scope.

Main Results:

• Micro-CT and DSA provide both morphological and functional information (e.g., cardiac function, perfusion).
• X-ray imaging offers higher throughput, lower cost, and adequate resolution compared to other modalities.
• Limitations include poor contrast and potential radiation damage, manageable with contrast agents and study design.

Conclusions:

• X-ray based imaging, particularly micro-CT and DSA, is a valuable tool for in vivo preclinical studies.
• These techniques can yield both anatomical and physiological data crucial for research.
• Optimized use of contrast agents and study protocols can overcome inherent limitations, enabling effective preclinical imaging.