Optimization of contrast-enhanced microCT for vascular applications

Microfocus X-ray computed tomography (microCT) is a powerful tool for non-invasive assessment of complex structures in 3D. In order to visualize the soft tissue constituents of the blood vessel wall (e.g. elastin, a crucial component providing reversible extensibility to arteries), synchrotron phase-enhancement is usually needed. However, here we show that it is possible to visualize and quantitatively assess the microstructural components (elastic lamellae, collagen, smooth muscle cells (SMCs)) in the different vessel wall layers (intima, adventitia, and media) using a lab-based microCT system combined with contrast-enhancing staining agents (CESAs), i.e., contrast-enhanced microCT (CECT) for different vessel types