Plaque imaging in murine models of cardiovascular disease

Comprehensive imaging of the cardiovascular system of murine models of atherosclerosis requires high spatial and temporal resolution as well as a high soft tissue contrast. High-field (≥7 T) experimental magnetic resonance imaging can provide noninvasive, high-resolution images of the murine cardiovascular system. High-field scanners, however, require special equipment and imaging protocols. The aim of this chapter is to provide instructions on how to obtain morphological and functional data on the murine cardiovascular system in animal models of atherosclerotic disease on a very high-field scanner (17.6 T). Equipment requirements are presented, and a comprehensive description of the methods needed to complete a magnetic resonance imaging exam, including the animal preparation, imaging, and image analysis are discussed. In addition, common problems during high-field MRI experiments and methods to validate MRI results are reviewed. The steps can be adopted to other MRI scanners and modification of the imaging parameters might allow for a more individual assessment of cardiovascular diseases in a number of transgenic mouse models.