Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Micro-computed tomography (µCT) allows us to image the three-dimensional structure of bone using X-rays. More specifically, we obtain images that represent "slices" of bone and using computer software we can put these slices together to create a model that shows us the inside structure of a bone. From these models, there are a variety of different characteristics we can quantify and, collectively, these measurements can be used to estimate the strength of a bone. This is important as a bone can be imaged in a live rodent at specific times during the lifespan or in response to an intervention rather than dissecting bone from different rodents at different endpoints. Imaging in live rodents over periods of time greatly reduces the number of rodents that need to be studied. It also provides a more precise tracking of the temporal response of a bone to an intervention as the same rodent is studied rather than introducing variation that naturally exists among rodents. We currently have a micro-computed tomography system, but the original X-ray source is no longer active so the system cannot function. We are requesting funds to purchase a new X-ray source so we can continue to use this essential piece of equipment that is integral to our research programs. Our research programs have ceased to include measures of bone structure as there is no alternative to obtain these measures using another system. With the replacement X-ray source, we will also be able to use rodent models to gain a deeper understanding of how tissues such as bone, muscle and brain interact to influence each other through `cross-talk'. Our team of researchers has started to incorporate measures of bone that are known to interact with and be influenced by physiological changes in muscle, adipose tissue and brain. Thus, a functional µCT will allow the researchers and their teams to bring added value to their individual studies by understanding the interconnectedness among tissues and in relation to interventions. Collectively, our research findings will have broad use such as informing the design of clinical trials that test interventions which may include diet and/or nutritional supplements, exercise and pharmacological approaches. Moreover, the food and drug industry can use this information in the development and testing of products.