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Small Animal Imaging Facility
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Reimann Building Room R464 215-728-3156 |
Function
The small animal imaging component of the bio-imaging facility gives investigators access to systems for magnetic resonance imaging, bioluminescence imaging, and endoscopic examinations.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is offered for non-invasive imaging of small animals (primarily mice). In addition to MRI scanning, the facility staff provides training in animal handling and preparation, including but not limited to the application of anesthetic, physiological monitoring of the animal in the scanner, and the intravenous injection of contrast agents. We also provide support for the quantitative analysis of the resulting images, including calculation of tumor volumes, tumor number, and the uptake of contrast agents (which provide information on tumor perfusion, oxygenation, and vascularity). The same system is also available for NMR analysis of small organic compounds and heteronuclear experiments on isotopically labeled enzymes.
Whole animal bioluminescence imaging is performed on tumor bearing animals that have been transfected with luciferase (firefly or renilla) or a fluorescent protein. Up to five mice can be imaged simultaneously in order to detect tumors and follow tumor growth. The system also has a capability for tomographic localization of tumor position, as well as spectral imaging capabilities for the removal of tissue autofluorescence. Tumor bearing xenografts or transgenic animals can be imaged in this sytem. The facility provides users with training on all aspects of this technique.
The facility has also developed in-house expertise with endoscopic approaches to imaging. This system is primarily used to perform colonoscopies on mice, however it is adaptable to other applications.
Description
The 300 MHz NMR spectroscopy/microimaging instrument consists of a wide-bore superconducting magnet and a Bruker DRX300 WB console with imaging accessory installed in December 1999. The upgrade includes a probe suitable for mounting live mice with ports for an inhaled anesthetic. Image analysis can be performed on a Linux workstation provided with the Bruker console, or off line on a PC workstation using commercial software or routines written in the IDL or MATLAB programming languages.
Bioluminescence/fluorescence imaging is performed with a CaliperLS/Xenogen IVIS Spectrum, a state-of-the-art system installed in June 2007. It is capable of simultaneous imaging of up to 5 live mice. The system also provides tomographic and spectral imaging capabilities. Endoscopic examinations are performed with a Hawkeye 1.5mm borescope with a Storz insufflation sheath, coupled to a Q-imaging micropublisher 3.3 camera.
Up to 500 mice can be housed directly in the facility in an Optimice (Animal Care Systems Inc.) carousel housing system, with direct exhaust ventilation and automatic watering.