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MicroCT optimisation for imaging fascicular anatomy in peripheral nerves
Nicole Thompson1, Enrico Ravagli1, Svetlana Mastitskaya1
1EIT and Neurophysiology Lab, Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom.
Journal of Neuroscience Methods
|March 18, 2020
Summary
This study introduces an optimized micro-computed tomography (microCT) method using iodine staining to visualize nerve fascicles. This technique aids in understanding nerve organization for improved vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) efficacy is limited by a lack of understanding regarding fascicular organization, leading to off-target effects.
- Micro-computed tomography (microCT) offers potential for imaging peripheral nerve fascicles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple, reproducible method for imaging peripheral nerve fascicles using iodine staining and microCT.
- To determine fascicular anatomy and organization for improved VNS.
Main Methods:
- Iodine staining (Lugol's solution) of rat sciatic and pig vagus nerves.
- Optimized microCT scanning parameters (4 µm voxel size, 35 kVp, 114 µA, 4 W, 0.25 fps, 4s exposure, 3176 projections).
- Staining durations of 24 hours (rat) and 120 hours (pig).
Main Results:
- The microCT protocol enabled successful segmentation and tracking of nerve fascicles.
- High-resolution, 3D imaging with full penetration depth was achieved.
- Optimized parameters allowed for efficient imaging without sample destruction or excessive memory use.
Conclusions:
- The optimized microCT method provides detailed fascicular organization maps.
- This facilitates selective VNS, potentially avoiding off-target effects.
- Improved understanding of vagus nerve anatomy enhances therapeutic efficacy.
