Establishing a database of MR microscopic images of human embryos and an educational system for human embryology

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

1) Three-dimensional (3D) MR microscope images of staged human embryos (Kyoto Collection of Human Embryos) were acquired using an MR microscope with a 1.OT permanent magnet T1 weighted 3D spin-echo imaging sequences,(TR=l00ms, TE =8-12ms, 128X128X128 image voxels) were used and 4-16 signals were accumulated to improve the SNR of the images. The spatial resolutions of 50-200 micron cube were obtained within 8 hours, which enabled to observe detailed external and internal structures of human embryos. To facilitate imaging of a large number of human embryos (over 4,000 cases), we developed a four-cal parallel MR microscope (super-parallel MR microscope) with a 234T/40cm superconducting magnet to achieve higher spatial resolutions. We aim at establishing a database of 3D MR images of 4,000 embryos within the next few years.2) Based on MR microscopic images, we developed a computer graphic (CG) animaltion and a VRML system for constructing educational softwares on human prenatal development for biomedical education. We established a method to automatically extract the MR image of specific organs such as the brain, heart, and liver.3) We made 3D models and movie demonstration systems of human development for embryological education. So far, tentative educational programs have been made for the development of the body, craniofacial structures, limbs, heart and great vessels, digestive tract, and central nervous system. The method developed is applicable to various fields in medical education.