X-ray synchrotron radiation pseudo-holotomography as a new imaging technique to investigate angio- and microvasculogenesis with no usage of contrast agents

Tissue Eng Part C Methods. 2009 Sep;15(3):425-30. doi: 10.1089/ten.tec.2008.0428.

Abstract

Standard X-ray micro-computed tomography is a technique that allows a good visualization of the structure of mineralized tissues and biomaterials, but it fails to finely discern soft tissues. Here, we used X-ray synchrotron radiation pseudo-holotomography to visualize, at three-dimensional (3D) level, microvascular networks for the first time with no need for contrast agents, and to extract quantitative structural data in a bone-engineered construct implanted for 24 weeks in a mouse. When compared to standard histology, pseudo-holotomography allowed a previously unavailable 3D resolution of the vessels, which in turn appeared more clearly visible. Thus, pseudo-holotomography is an innovative technique that offers a promising powerful tool to investigate angio- and microvasculogenesis in advanced biomedical research areas such as regenerative medicine and antiangiogenic cancer therapies.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Contrast Media
  • Holography / methods*
  • Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / physiology*
  • Microvessels / cytology*
  • Microvessels / physiology
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic / physiology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Sheep
  • Subtraction Technique
  • Synchrotrons
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media