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Advancing ovarian folliculometry with selective plane illumination microscopy
Hsiao-Chun Amy Lin1,2, Rahul Dutta3, Subhamoy Mandal1,4
1Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.
Scientific Reports
|December 2, 2016
Summary
Selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) non-destructively images whole ovarian follicles in 3D. This technique aids in monitoring follicular development and diagnosing ovarian diseases.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Microscopy Techniques
- Ovarian Physiology
Background:
- Ovarian status and follicle monitoring are crucial for diagnosing female infertility.
- Conventional histology has limitations in non-destructive, high-throughput imaging of ovarian follicles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the suitability of selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) for studying ovarian follicles.
- To assess SPIM's capability in visualizing follicular structures and aiding in disease diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) system for imaging intact whole porcine ovarian follicles.
- Acquired volumetric image stacks with high resolution and contrast for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- SPIM enabled visualization of follicle volume, diameter, asymmetry, cumulus oophorus complex size, and theca thickness.
- All follicular developmental stages were identified, with discernible relationships between theca thickness distribution and developmental stage.
- The system provided non-destructive, sub-cellular resolution 3D imaging with high throughput.
Conclusions:
- SPIM is a suitable method for non-destructive, high-throughput monitoring of follicular development.
- SPIM facilitates the identification of structural abnormalities indicative of ovarian ailments.
- Accurate folliculometric measurements from SPIM images enhance understanding of ovarian physiology and disease management.
