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Utilizing 3D Printing Technology to Merge MRI with Histology: A Protocol for Brain Sectioning
Published on: December 6, 2016
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Do it yourself: Creating 3D brain-surface models and custom-made brain matrices for guided sectioning using
Sophie Holtz1, Julio Hechavarria2, Mirjam Knörnschild3
1Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustraße 6, Berlin 14195, Germany; Max Planck School of Cognition, Stephanstrasse 1a, Leipzig, Germany.
Journal of Neuroscience Methods
|November 16, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed a cost-effective 3D brain matrix for precise histological analysis in non-model animals. This method aids neuroethology by standardizing brain sectioning and improving accessibility for diverse species.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Comparative Anatomy
- Bioimaging
Background:
- Neuroethology relies on studying diverse, non-model animal species.
- Precise histological brain analysis is crucial for understanding neural mechanisms across species.
- Standardized techniques are needed for brain analysis in non-model organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel, cost-effective method for creating species-specific brain matrices.
- To enable precise and reproducible trimming, blocking, and sectioning of brain tissue.
- To facilitate advanced neuroscience research in a wider range of species.
Main Methods:
- Utilized photogrammetry with Blender and SnapMesh to create a 3D brain surface model.
- Modeled and 3D printed a species-specific brain matrix.
- Developed a workflow suitable for most vertebrate brains.
Main Results:
- Generated the first 3D brain surface model and matrix for Seba's short-tailed fruit bat (Carollia perspicillata).
- The brain matrix standardizes brain trimming and blocking for consistent sectioning.
- The workflow is cost-effective and preserves tissue, unlike CT-scanning methods.
Conclusions:
- The developed workflow is cost-effective and tissue-preserving, benefiting researchers globally.
- This accessible, customizable, and reproducible method democratizes advanced neuroscience.
- Enables precise histological analysis for non-model animals, advancing comparative neuroethology.
