Advances in micro-CT imaging of small animals.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Preclinical Research
• Radiology

Background:

• Micron-scale computed tomography (micro-CT) is a widely used, cost-effective, and non-invasive 3D imaging technique.
• Its application in preclinical research is extensive, providing valuable anatomical insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments and applications of micro-CT in preclinical research.
• To summarize state-of-the-art hardware, challenges, and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent micro-CT advancements.
• Analysis of new hardware, including dual-energy and photon-counting detector systems.
• Exploration of X-ray phase contrast (XPC) imaging and deep learning applications.

Main Results:

• New spectral micro-CT techniques enable enhanced material differentiation and quantitative analysis.
• Photon-counting detectors (PCDs) allow for intrinsic tissue and extrinsic contrast agent differentiation.
• XPC imaging improves soft tissue contrast, expanding imaging applications.
• Deep learning shows promise in improving micro-CT data analysis.

Conclusions:

• Micro-CT advancements provide anatomical, functional, and molecular information in preclinical studies.
• Emerging technologies position micro-CT at the forefront of translational research.
• Micro-CT serves as a critical platform for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.