A LabVIEW Platform for Preclinical Imaging Using Digital Subtraction Angiography and Micro-CT.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Preclinical Research

Background:

• Clinical CT and DSA are essential; preclinical equivalents are crucial for disease research.
• Rodent models are vital for studying diseases and testing treatments.
• Complex imaging systems require sophisticated control software.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a LabVIEW-based platform for controlling a dual source/detector X-ray system.
• To enable integrated micro-CT and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for preclinical research.
• To facilitate anatomical and functional imaging in rodent models.

Main Methods:

• Developed a dual source/detector X-ray imaging system.
• Utilized LabVIEW for integrated control of X-ray system, ventilator, and injector.
• Implemented cardiac- and respiratory-gating for micro-CT and DSA acquisitions.
• Applied prospective and retrospective gating for 4D micro-CT imaging.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated DSA for cardiopulmonary studies and vascular imaging (liver, coronary arteries).
• Showcased DSA for functional kidney imaging.
• Illustrated 4D micro-CT for cardiac imaging using gating techniques.
• Successfully integrated multiple components for comprehensive imaging.

Conclusions:

• The developed LabVIEW platform enables versatile anatomical and functional imaging with micro-CT and DSA in rodents.
• The system supports advanced imaging applications, including cardiac- and respiratory-gated studies.
• This integrated approach enhances the study of disease models and therapeutic interventions.