Imaging in animal models: bridging experimental findings and human pathophysiology

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis are major respiratory conditions associated with significant morbidity and, in some cases, high mortality. A variety of animals models have been established to study these disorders, primarily focusing on histologic alterations, cellular signalling pathways, inflammatory responses, lung perfusion, gas-exchange abnormalities, and response to emerging therapies. Imaging techniques play a crucial role in these investigations, enabling in vivo assessment of lung structure and function. The most widely used imaging modalities include computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), and electrical impedance tomography (EIT). While CT and, to a variable extent, PET involve ionizing radiation, EIT is a radiation-free technique. Despite anatomical differences between species, many imaging and physiological findings observed in animal models are consistent with those seen in critically ill patients, enhancing their translational relevance. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the applicability of these imaging techniques in animal models and explores their relevance to human pathophysiology and clinical management.