To evaluate the vascularization of a mouse brain, I have to use the X-ray microtomography method and a contrast agent. But I have a problem. The brain must not move and it must not be deformed by a container (like an Eppendorf tube for example, because the edges flatten the brain).
Does anyone have a clue for this problem?
We do these scans frequently. The preparation is listed below.
If the brain has been fixed ( and it should be if you are to remove it from the skull) then you will find the best option is to wrap the brain in a plastic or wax based film to prevent desiccation during the CT scan. We have used the product called Parafilm or Chemfilm which is a wax based film that is chemically inert and hydrophobic. Once the brain has been wrapped then it is placed in a tissue holder made of closed-cell foam that has been shaped to hold the brain in it's natural habit. Closed cell foam prevents the absorption of an water from the tissue if the Parafilm/Chemfilm should leak. Styrofoam (USA) is a foam of this type. This reduces the amount of X-ray attenuation by the film and the foam holder which gives the maximum amount of contrast in the brain tissue for the contrast.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Geoscience
- Asia
- India