Micro-CT acquisition and image processing to track and characterize pulmonary nodules in mice

Area of Science:

• Preclinical research
• Medical imaging
• Oncology

Background:

• X-ray computed tomography (CT) is crucial for detecting and monitoring pulmonary nodules.
• Miniaturized CT scanners are valuable for preclinical research, mimicking clinical conditions.
• Lung cancer research requires reliable imaging techniques for early detection and treatment assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an optimized protocol for high-resolution, low-dose, high-throughput micro-CT imaging of lung nodules in mice.
• To detail image analysis tools for identifying diverse lung tumor types based on radiological features.
• To facilitate the use of micro-CT in preclinical lung cancer models for mechanistic and therapeutic studies.

Main Methods:

• Image acquisition parameters optimized for low radiation dose and high resolution using three commercial micro-CT scanners.
• Detailed description of image analysis tools for identifying various lung tumor types.
• Protocol implementation requires basic training in animal handling, medical imaging, and software analysis.

Main Results:

• Efficient image acquisition (4-8 min per animal) and data analysis (10-30 min per animal).
• Optimized parameters enable high-resolution and high-throughput imaging.
• The protocol is adaptable for various mouse lung cancer models.

Conclusions:

• This protocol offers a standardized approach for micro-CT imaging in preclinical lung cancer research.
• It supports the investigation of molecular mechanisms and assessment of therapeutic agents.
• The method is accessible to researchers with basic training, promoting translational research.