Computed Tomography (CT)

We leverage our substantial micro-CT imaging expertise to implement, develop, optimize and validate micro-CT imaging paradigms for drug research studies. Our experience in CT-based bone and soft tissue imaging encompasses a number of disease states.

Micro-CT enables high-resolution (to ~10 microns), three-dimensional image generation by rotation of an x-ray source and detector around an imaging subject. The detector collects x-rays that pass through the subject to create planar (2D) images or projections. Multiple projections are obtained during the rotation and reconstructed to generate the three-dimensional image. Different tissue types attenuate x-rays to varying degrees, largely based on differing density, leading to image contrast. The large density differences between bone, soft tissue and air make them readily distinguished by CT. CT contrast between different soft tissues is generally more subtle. The use of systemically-administered, CT contrast agents enables better visualization of the soft tissues, including the vascular system.

Capabilities and Applications

  • Micro-CT images can be used to characterize bone loss and growth, including bone density and microstructure. Anatomical CT imaging enables assessment of bone remodeling and calcification. CT is the preferred, translational technology for the quantification of metastatic and arthritic bone disease, and we provide numerous, bone-disease validated models, including several models of bone metastasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

  • We also have strong expertise in imaging of bone metastasis in validated intracardiac and peritibial models, including imaging of osteolytic and osteoblastic activity, using staged-treatment or prevention paradigms.

  • We offer preclinical models of inflammation, with a primary focus on the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. With CT we can evaluate therapeutic agents in mouse and rat models of arthritis in a clinically-translatable fashion.

  • Micro-CT provides non-destructive imaging for 3D analysis of bone architecture. Protocols can enable quantitative, morphometric analysis of skeletal features.

  • Our RS-150 micro-CT platform facilitates CT-based, soft tissue imaging through a unique high confluence x-ray tube that enables unusually short exposure times. Standard CT contrast agents can be used to enhance soft tissue contrast. In addition in vivo performance of developmental CT contrast agents can be characterized.

  • 3D tissue vasculature can be casted using curative-agent, perfusion protocols. Through ex vivo CT imaging, tissue vascular architecture can be visualized and analyzed for treatment effect. We use this powerful approach for assessment of anti-angiogenic therapies in oncology models.

  • Micro-CT provides 3D non-destructive analysis of bone micro-structure superior to histology. Studies can be performed at your facility and we can screen and analyze the samples. We offer rapid turnarounds of 1-2 weeks from sample receipt, including complete dataset, tabular data and report.

  • Micro-CT is well suited to the study of osteoporosis, for example in aged female rodent models. Bone protective treatment paradigms can be studied through time-course imaging. We leverage our staff’s expertise in using models of osteoporosis to fit specific needs.

  • With 3D CT images of the abdomen, visceral fat can be discerned from lean tissue to enable body composition end points.

  • We can quickly perform testing and image-based characterization of novel CT contrast agents and nanoparticles.

  • Micro-CT can provide non-invasive, non-destructive visualization and testing of implanted biomaterials and medical devices, both from a safety and performance perspective. Our surgical expertise can accommodate medical device or material implant prior to in vivo imaging time courses.