Small Animal Imaging

The Small Animal Imaging Core offers a variety of preclinical imaging services to internal and external clients.

Equipment & Technology:

• SkyScan 1276 (Bruker), micro CT with in vivo and ex vivo capabilities
• Vevo F2 (Visual Sonics), high-resolution ultrasound
• Caliper IVIS Lumina LT (Revvity), bioluminescent and fluorescent imaging

 Services Available:

Micro-Computed Tomography (micro CT)

Micro CT is most often used for assessing calcified tissues such as bones and teeth. We provide in vivo and ex vivo high-resolution measurements of bone density, morphology and microarchitecture. Additionally, we can assess calcifications in any tissue as a result of pathology.  Soft tissue and other biomaterials can be imaged using radiographic contrast agents. In vivo scanning is available for mice and rats. Ex vivo imaging services are available to all customers. External customers please contact us directly for in vivo imaging options.

• Bone imaging and analysis (femur, tibia, L5 vertebra, humerus)
• Longitudinal studies of bone development
• Adipose tissue imaging and analysis
• Lung imaging
• Contrast enhanced soft tissue imaging
• Biomaterial porosity measurements
• Customized project development

Ultrasound

• Echocardiography
• Anatomical/morphological imaging of any organ system
• Tumor volume determination
• Targeted and non-targeted microbubble imaging
• Blood flow quantification by power and color doppler
• Blood vessel stiffness measurements

Optical Imaging

The Core offers complete services for non-destructive, longitudinal optical imaging with bioluminescence and fluorescence capabilities of mice.

• Experimental Design and Protocol Optimization
• Fluorescent Imaging, Quantification, and Data Analysis
• Bioluminescent Imaging, Quantification, and Data Analysis