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Quantifying layer-specific thicknesses in porcine large intestine using X-ray microscopy
Gregory Hirst1, Zachary Ross1, Adam Rose1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, United States.
Microscopy (Oxford, England)
|October 1, 2025
Summary
X-ray microscopy (XRM) offers a non-destructive 3D method for measuring intestinal wall layers, providing accurate results comparable to traditional microscopy with less preparation. This technique aids in biomechanical modeling and medical device development.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Anatomical Imaging
Background:
- Accurate intestinal layer thickness is crucial for biomechanical modeling and medical device design.
- Traditional microscopy has limitations including 2D imaging and tissue distortion from sample preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate X-ray microscopy (XRM) as a non-destructive 3D alternative for quantifying intestinal wall layer thicknesses.
- To compare XRM measurements with standard light microscopy for porcine large intestinal tissue.
Main Methods:
- Utilized ZEISS Xradia 620 Versa for X-ray microscopy (XRM) on porcine large intestinal tissue.
- Compared XRM 3D imaging and thickness measurements with traditional light microscopy.
- Performed 3D reconstructions of tissue vasculature using XRM data.
Main Results:
- XRM successfully visualized and measured the thicknesses of the four major intestinal layers: serosa, muscularis externa, submucosa, and mucosa.
- XRM measurements were consistent with standard light microscopy, accounting for biological variability.
- XRM enabled 3D visualization of tissue vasculature without extensive sample preparation or staining.
Conclusions:
- X-ray microscopy is a practical and powerful method for morphological analysis of soft tissues.
- Established the first reported absolute layer thicknesses for porcine large intestinal tissue.
- XRM data can inform layer-specific constitutive biomechanical models and gastrointestinal medical device development.
