Design of a mouse restraint for synchrotron-based computed tomography imaging

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Medical Physics
• Animal Research

Background:

• High-resolution computed tomography (CT) of live animals requires specialized equipment for physiological monitoring and precise positioning.
• Existing methods face challenges in maintaining anesthesia stability and achieving optimal imaging angles within synchrotron light hutches.
• Remote monitoring of physiological parameters (heart rate, oxygen saturation, temperature, respiration) is crucial for animal welfare during scans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate an X-ray transparent mouse restraint for high-resolution CT imaging.
• To overcome challenges associated with live animal positioning and physiological monitoring during synchrotron-based CT scans.
• To validate the efficacy of the new restraint system at a dedicated beamline.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computer-aided design (CAD) software for the restraint's design.
• Employed three-dimensional (3D) rapid prototyping for fabrication.
• Tested the restraint system on a live animal at the Biomedical Imaging and Therapy bending-magnet (BMIT-BM) beamline.
• Integrated remote physiological monitoring capabilities.

Main Results:

• The novel X-ray transparent mouse restraint was successfully designed and fabricated.
• The restraint facilitated stable anesthesia and precise positioning of the mouse.
• The system allowed for 180°-360° rotation, essential for thoracic CT imaging.
• The restraint proved effective in the synchrotron light hutch environment.

Conclusions:

• The developed X-ray transparent mouse restraint is a viable solution for high-resolution CT imaging of live animals.
• This innovation addresses critical challenges in animal positioning and physiological monitoring during synchrotron imaging.
• The successful testing at the Canadian Light Source demonstrates its potential for advancing preclinical research.