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Myelinated mouse nerves studied by X-ray phase contrast zoom tomography
M Bartels1, M Krenkel1, P Cloetens2
1Institut für Röntgenphysik, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.
Journal of Structural Biology
|November 8, 2015
Summary
X-ray phase contrast tomography visualizes entire mouse nerves, revealing axonal structures and myelin sheaths. This method identifies key nerve substructures like nodes of Ranvier without sectioning.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Understanding nerve structure is crucial for diagnosing and treating neurological disorders.
- Current imaging techniques often require nerve sectioning, limiting analysis of intact structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply X-ray phase contrast tomography for imaging intact myelinated nerves.
- To visualize axonal and myelin structures in whole mouse nerves at high resolution.
Main Methods:
- Utilized X-ray phase contrast tomography with spherical wave illumination.
- Employed intrinsic electron density contrast and osmium tetroxide staining for myelin labeling.
- Imaged uncut, entire myelinated optic, saphenous, and sciatic mouse nerves.
Main Results:
- Successfully resolved the structure of entire myelinated mouse nerves.
- Distinguished between axonal structures and surrounding myelin sheaths.
- Identified sub-structures including nodes of Ranvier and Schmidt-Lanterman incisures in sciatic nerves.
Conclusions:
- X-ray phase contrast tomography provides detailed structural information of intact myelinated nerves.
- The technique allows for non-destructive imaging and analysis of nerve morphology.
- This method offers a novel approach for studying nerve architecture and pathology.
