A core in vivo microCT imaging system for analyzing body composition, circulation and cardiorespiratory function in rodents

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As part of the Muscle Health Research Centre at York University, our research programs focus on understanding the mechanisms by which our metabolism and cardiovascular systems function. Specifically, we focus on understanding the causes of muscle weakness, the factors that determine where we store fat in our body and how our blood vessels grow and re-organize into complex networks. Many of our experiments cannot be performed in humans and so we must rely on mice and rats for our investigations. Using genetic modifications and specific pharmacological compounds, we are able to identify the specific cellular pathways responsible for determining muscle and adipose mass and distribution as well as the structure of our cardiovascular system. However, we currently lack the ability to take images of muscle, adipose and blood vessels in a living animal. The requested microCT imager performs imaging similar to CT scans for humans but is designed specifically for mice and rats. This will allow us to monitor changes in body composition and blood vessel growth throughout early development, aging and in response to specific treatments without sacrificing the animal. The imager will also measure heart and lung function to help us understand diseases that affect heart function and breathing. Collectively, these functions of the microCT imager will directly support at least 10 research programs (6 primary applicants with at least 4 additional users) in our group at the Muscle Health Research Centre focused on understanding the regulation of metabolism, growth and development of muscle, adipose and circulatory systems.