SkyScan 1276: Multiscale Micro-CT SystemLaboratory

摘要

ABSTRACT We are requesting funds to purchase a Bruker SkyScan 1276 High-Resolution In Vivo X-Ray Microtomograph (micro-CT scanner). This instrument will directly support the research programs of 18 investigators (Users), including 11 NIH-funded Users (with 16 different projects). The S10 Users represent faculty from 6 different departments within the McGovern Medical School at UTHealth (MMS) and one from a neighboring institution. The four Major Users represent three different departments within the MMS. The requested instrument would be the first of its kind in the MMS, and thus a valuable new resource for performing high resolution in vivo imaging of rats and mice. This state-of-the-art micro-CT scanner offers the ability to perform in vivo or ex vivo measurements at resolution up to 2.8 um. The dimensions of the scanner can accommodate specimens up to 160 mm (bore diameter) with a scanning field of view of 80 mm. The majority of the applications will include mice and rats, capitalizing on the instrument’s high image resolution – essential for many of the applications with these smaller animals. Another key application of this instrument will be longitudinal in vivo imaging. Features unique to the SkyScan 1276 instrument allow for significant reduction of radiation exposure, thus permitting repeated imaging with minimal biological effect from X-ray exposure. The instrument is equipped with an anesthesia system (isoflurane) and integrated physiological monitoring (including a breathing sensor, ECG, temperature stabilization, and body movement detection). The monitoring system allows for gated acquisition based on respiration or heart rate for improved in vivo resolution. Peak X-ray energy is adjustable from 20 to 100 kV and a proprietary spatial beam shaper reduces radiation dose up to 5 fold. An integrated meter keeps track of animal radiation dosage. The instrument is supplied with a powerful computer for acquisition and processing, capable of high-speed image reconstruction (NRecon 3D) and with ample data storage. Offline analysis is available on any computer through free viewer and analysis software from Bruker. The footprint of the instrument is small, requiring only 6 feet of a standard bench. The Department of Neurology has designated a space for the instrument (room MSB 3.508), which is secure and convenient to MMS users. The Institution has committed to support 88% of the service contract cost (to 5 years) and salary of a 50% dedicated technician to operate and maintain the SkyScan 1276. The instrument will be operated on a very low fee-for-use basis ($15-45/hr) to recover operation costs. Usage for NIH-funded projects will be >75%, with at least 10% of peak usage remaining available for non-S10 Users. To support junior investigators or un-funded investigators, up to 10% usage will be provided free of charge. In summary, we are requesting funds to purchase an instrument which will address the absence of high resolution in vivo micro-CT imaging capabilities for rodents at the MMS. The instrument will serve as a state-of-the-art resource to the S10 Users, investigators throughout the MMS, and even neighboring institutions on the Texas Medical Center campus.