Non-invasive Skeletal Muscle Quantification in Small Animals Using Micro-computed Tomography

Alexander Pereira-Rosa; Thamires S. Oliveira; Matheus S. Ferreira; Rodrigo J. Vianna-Barbosa; Tula C. Wilmart-Gon&#231;alves; T&#226;nia M. Ortiga; Flavia F. Bloise

doi:10.3791/67393

Quantificação não invasiva do músculo esquelético em pequenos animais por meio de microtomografia...

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Non-invasive Skeletal Muscle Quantification in Small Animals Using Micro-computed Tomography

Quantificação não invasiva do músculo esquelético em pequenos animais por meio de microtomografia computadorizada

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07:33 min

November 8, 2024

DOI: 10.3791/67393-v

Alexander Pereira-Rosa¹, Thamires S. Oliveira¹, Matheus S. Ferreira¹, Rodrigo J. Vianna-Barbosa², Tula C. Wilmart-Gonçalves², Tânia M. Ortiga¹, Flavia F. Bloise¹

¹Laboratório de Endocrinologia Translacional, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho,Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, ²Small Animal Imaging Unit, National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging,Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

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Overview

This protocol introduces a cost-effective micro-computed tomography (microCT) method for quantifying body composition in small animals, focusing on lean mass, adipose tissue, and skeletal structures. The technique provides distinct differentiation between tissue types, benefiting biomedical and translational research.

Key Study Components

Research Area

Body composition analysis
Muscle physiology
Biomedical research techniques

Background

Importance of quantifying lean and adipose tissues
Innovative photon-counting x-ray detectors enhance tissue differentiation
Challenges in microCT data analysis and acquisition protocols

Methods Used

Micro-computed tomography for imaging
Mice as model organisms for experimentation
3D imaging and segmentation software for analysis

Main Results

Ability to acquire multiple scans from the same animal effectively
Identification of distinct anatomical regions via tissue segmentation
Correlational data indicating age-related changes in body composition

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a reliable microCT protocol for body composition assessment in small animals.
It holds significant relevance for advancing understanding in muscle physiology and aging-related studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is microCT used for?

MicroCT is employed for the detailed analysis of body composition in small animals, distinguishing between lean mass and adipose tissue.

How does the microCT process work?

MicroCT scans are performed on anesthetized subjects, capturing high-resolution images for analysis and segmentation of various tissue types.

What are the advantages of using microCT?

MicroCT offers non-invasive imaging, cost-effectiveness, reduced animal use, and the ability to conduct longitudinal studies.

What are Hounsfield units?

Hounsfield units are a measure of radiodensity used to differentiate tissue types in medical imaging, including microCT scans.

Can the microCT protocol be adapted for different research needs?

Yes, the protocol can be modified to focus on various tissues and research objectives, making it versatile for multiple studies.

What challenges exist in using microCT?

Challenges include the need for consistent protocols and training for accurate data analysis, particularly with complex anatomical regions.

How does age affect body composition according to the study?

The study found that elderly subjects have higher body fat percentages and reduced lean mass compared to younger adults, indicating age-related changes.

Este protocolo usa microtomografia computadorizada para permitir a quantificação econômica da massa magra, incluindo músculo esquelético e tecido visceral, tecido adiposo e tecido esquelético em pequenos animais. Ele distingue entre tecido magro e adiposo, o que oferece vantagens significativas para a pesquisa biomédica, particularmente na pesquisa translacional em pequenos animais.

A microCT é uma técnica econômica e não invasiva para análise da composição corporal. É vantajoso em estudos de fisiologia muscular, permitindo durante as intervenções. O microCT fornece dados do mesmo animal várias vezes, melhorando a qualidade da análise e reduzindo o uso de animais.

Os detectores de raios-x de contagem de fótons são uma inovação em microCT que permitirá a diferenciação quantitativa de tecidos usando diferentes agentes de contraste associados a plataformas de nanopartículas. Isso pode melhorar a identificação de diferentes áreas anatômicas com uma solução de bário. O treinamento representa um desafio significativo na análise de dados de microCT, e também a falta de protocolos consistentes para TC pré-clínica pode complicar a aquisição de imagens, especialmente quando se trata de biomateriais ou imagens de tumores, pois as regiões anatômicas podem exibir valores variados de Hounsfield.

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