Micro-CT imaging is highly effective for the assessment of trabecular and cortical bone morphology, allowing researchers to measure bone microarchitecture without relying on stereologic models. Researchers can non-destructively acquire the three-dimensional architecture of bone from any site within a small animal. The sample remains intact, allowing researchers to follow up with genetic and histological analysis. Because rodent models can mimic aspects of a biological process or disease found in humans, they are widely used in many types of biomedical research.
Skeletal Characterization of the Fgfr3 Mouse Model of Achondroplasia Using Micro-CT and MRI Volumetric Imaging
Micro-CT provides a deeper understanding of skeletal abnormalities that will help guide the development of new and effective therapeutic approaches for the treatment of achondroplasia. “Achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, affects more than a quarter million people worldwide and remains an unmet medical need. Achondroplasia is caused by mutations in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene which results in over-activation of the receptor, interfering with normal skeletal development leading to disproportional short stature. Multiple mouse models have been generated to study achondroplasia.”
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Guidelines for assessment of bone microstructure in rodents using micro-computed tomography
It is difficult to interpret reported results and to compare findings across different studies without consistent reporting of parameters related to image acquisition and analysis, standardized terminology, and key outcome assessments. This article provides recommendations “…regarding (1) standardized terminology and units, (2) information to be included in describing the methods for a given experiment, and (3) a minimal set of outcome variables that should be reported.” The experimental design will be determined by the research objective, but these guidelines will help to provide accurate, consistent reporting of micro-CT bone morphometry and density measurements.
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Murine femur micro-computed tomography and biomechanical datasets for an ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis model
“The development of new effective and safer therapies for osteoporosis, in addition to improved diagnostic and prevention strategies, represents a serious need in the scientific community.” Micro-CT has become a key tool in identifying osteoporosis in animal models by the assessment of bone microarchitecture, resistance, and bone strength. High resolution images acquired by micro-CT analysis accurately quantify and depict the 3D microarchitecture of both cortical and trabecular bone. Improved techniques to assess bone quality are essential for the development of better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Human and mouse bones physiologically integrate in a humanized mouse model while maintaining species-specific ultrastructure
Humanized mouse models are studied to replicate human-like bone physiology. Human and mouse bone architectures differ in multiple scales, but how chimeric human-mouse bone physiologically interacts and structurally integrates is not well known. This study shows that “…mouse and human-like tissue types coexist and structurally integrate in a chimeric bone organ while maintaining species-specific ultrastructural differences.”
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X-ray Microscopic Examination of Murine Femora
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Micro-CT of Toolmarks in Bone Using the Bruker SkyScan 1173
Growing Bone in Space: Studying Spaceflight-induced Osteoporosis (OP) with Micro-CT