Authors:

Katelyn B. Lee

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About Paper:

Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is a commonly used imaging modality for three-dimensional visualizations of small animal models. This technique is highly regarded because of its ability to produce results with high spatial resolution, especially for the purpose of bone density visualization and structure reconstruction. However, micro-CT can be costly and has poor temporal resolution. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive technique that allows for shorter imaging times while still maintaining a micron-scale resolution. The compact laser system offers a lower-cost option for imaging structural development of bone and tissue, and its utilization in imaging small animal models may provide sufficient structural information with minimal loss in spatial resolution. In this study, we evaluated OCT for producing cross-sectional images of bone structures in mouse skulls across age. Skull thickness, low-density area ratios, and attenuation coefficients were extracted to compare OCT-derived metrics with micro-CT and to assess OCT image quality with increasing depth. OCT skull thickness measurements showed close agreement with micro-CT and caliper measurements. Low-density area ratios derived from OCT differed in magnitude from micro-CT measurements but exhibited parallel age-dependent trends. Attenuation analysis demonstrated decreasing OCT signal quality with increasing skull thickness. These results demonstrate the feasibility of OCT as a complementary tool for comparative structural analysis of the mouse skull, however, they do not support OCT as a complete replacement for micro-CT imaging in small animal studies.

Source:

University of Illinois Chicago

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Co-authors:

Katelyn B. Lee