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Visualization and Quantification of Brown and Beige Adipose Tissues in Mice using [18F]FDG Micro-PET/MR Imaging
Published on: July 1, 2021
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Preclinical In vivo Imaging for Fat Tissue Identification, Quantification, and Functional Characterization
Pasquina Marzola1, Federico Boschi1, Francesco Moneta2
1Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona Italy.
Frontiers in Pharmacology
|October 12, 2016
Summary
This review highlights non-invasive imaging techniques like MRI, CT, and PET for assessing fat tissue in animal models. These methods are crucial for evaluating anti-obesity drugs and understanding adipose tissue physiology.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics and Physiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pharmacological Research
Background:
- Obesity is a significant health concern requiring effective pharmacological and surgical interventions.
- Animal models are essential for preclinical assessment of anti-obesity drug efficacy.
- Non-invasive methods are needed for longitudinal evaluation of body fat in these models.
Approach:
- This review focuses on non-invasive imaging techniques: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), and Positron Emission Tomography (PET).
- It details the physical principles of signal detection for each modality.
- Relevant studies are summarized to illustrate applications in fat tissue assessment.
Key Points:
- MRI distinguishes between fat and water protons and differentiates white and brown adipose tissue (BAT).
- CT leverages the higher carbon/hydrogen content of fat for assessment.
- PET with 18F-FDG measures metabolic rate, making it ideal for BAT studies.
Conclusions:
- MRI, CT, and PET are fundamental for in vivo identification, quantification, and functional characterization of adipose tissues in small animals.
- These techniques are vital for advancing research into obesity and potential anti-obesity therapies.
- Optical techniques are also emerging as valuable tools in this field.
