Imaging Core
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) has been a specialty of the Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics since it was founded. As an imaging technology, it uses x-ray radiation to unlock a specimen’s interior three-dimensional structure. These images can reach the micrometer resolution range and our facility is capable of imaging both inanimate objects as well as living organisms.
Our Goal
At the LBB Imaging Core, we provide both internal and external users with access to high-quality micro-CT systems, which are used to image a wide breadth of specimens and laboratory animals. We train users, support the study planning process, and setup both imaging protocols and analyses. Our overarching aim is to develop new protocols for imaging and image quantification — particularly in the field of high-resolution imaging and longitudinal studies.
Our Expertise
We operate four different micro-CT scanners (Scanco Medical AG, Brüttisellen, Switzerland). Our two specimen scanners can image objects up to 50 x 120 mm (ØxL) and provide a resolution of 0.5 – 100 µm. The two small animal scanners are suited to image mice and rats with a maximum field of view of 80 x 145 mm ((ØxL). In vivo, we can reach resolutions ranging between 5 and 160 µm. We also possess the computational competency required to analyze and quantify these large image data sets. We combine Python and Scanco’s IPL software to perform large-scale analyses both spatially and temporally.
Projects
Microstructural assessment of idiopathic osteoporosis (IOP)
Bone is a complex biological material and to maintain its structural integrity, the organ continuously remodels itself. This process is guided by the osteocytes, which are the embedded cells that orchestrate tissue formation and resorption. This remodeling process is delicate and when compromised, bone is at risk for metabolic diseases to manifest — leading to fragile bone and, ultimately, fractures.
