Funding for this work was provided by: AG007218 and NIH F32 AG031606.
Images were generated in the Core Optical Imaging Facility, which is supported by UTHSCSA, NIH-NCI P30 CA54174 (CTRC at UTHSCSA) and NIH-NIA P01AG19316.

Note: All animal procedures were approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and were consistent with the ARRIVE guidelines.
1.&#160;Anesthetizing for Cortical Preparation
<ol>
	<li>Place the mouse in an induction chamber with 2-3% isofluorane mixed with oxygen to induce anesthesia. Observe the respiration rate decrease as the mouse is induced. Pinch the paw of the mouse to determine whether the mouse is ready to mo...

<ol>
	<li>Watson, B. D., Dietrich, W. D., Busto, R., Wachtel, M. S., Ginsberg, M. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Induction+of+reproducible+brain+infarction+by+photochemically+initiated+thrombosis.">Induction of reproducible brain infarction by photochemically initiated thrombosis.</a> Annals of Neurology. 17, 497-504 (1985).</li><li>Rosenblum, W. I., El-Sabban, F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Platelet+aggregation+in+the+cerebral+microcirculation:+effect+of+aspirin+and+other+agents.">Platelet aggregation in the cerebral microcirculation: effect of aspirin and other agents.</a> Circulation Research. 40, 320-328 (1977).</li><li>Owens, A. P., Mackman, N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Sources+of+tissue+factor+that+contribute+to+thrombosis+after+rupture+of+an+atherosclerotic+plaque.">Sources of tissue factor that contribute to thrombosis after rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque.</a> Thrombosis Research. 129, S30-S33 (2012).</li><li>Carmichael, S. T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Rodent+models+of+focal+stroke:+size,+mechanism,+and+purpose.">Rodent models of focal stroke: size, mechanism, and purpose.</a> NeuroRx : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics. 2, 396-409 (2005).</li><li>. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Manual of stroke models in rats. , (2009).</li><li>Herz, R. C., Kasbergen, C. M., Hillen, B., Versteeg, D. H., de Wildt, D. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Rat+middle+cerebral+artery+occlusion+by+an+intraluminal+thread+compromises+collateral+blood+flow.">Rat middle cerebral artery occlusion by an intraluminal thread compromises collateral blood flow.</a> Brain Research. 791, 223-228 (1998).</li><li>Brint, S., Jacewicz, M., Kiessling, M., Tanabe, J., Pulsinelli, W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Focal+brain+ischemia+in+the+rat:+methods+for+reproducible+neocortical+infarction+using+tandem+occlusion+of+the+distal+middle+cerebral+and+ipsilateral+common+carotid+arteries.">Focal brain ischemia in the rat: methods for reproducible neocortical infarction using tandem occlusion of the distal middle cerebral and ipsilateral common carotid arteries.</a> Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism : Official Journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism. 8, 474-485 (1988).</li><li>Zheng, W., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Purinergic+receptor+stimulation+reduces+cytotoxic+edema+and+brain+infarcts+in+mouse+induced+by+photothrombosis+by+energizing+glial+mitochondria.">Purinergic receptor stimulation reduces cytotoxic edema and brain infarcts in mouse induced by photothrombosis by energizing glial mitochondria.</a> PloS One. 5, e14401 (2010).</li><li>Zheng, D. M., Wewer, J., Lechleiter, J. P. 2. Y. 1. R. -. i. n. i. t. i. a. t. e. d. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=IP3R-dependent+stimulation+of+astrocyte+mitochondrial+metabolism+reduces+and+partially+reverses+ischemic+neuronal+damage+in+mouse.">IP3R-dependent stimulation of astrocyte mitochondrial metabolism reduces and partially reverses ischemic neuronal damage in mouse.</a> Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism. 33, 600-611 (2013).</li><li>Witte, O. W., Stoll, G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Delayed+and+remote+effects+of+focal+cortical+infarctions:+secondary+damage+and+reactive+plasticity.">Delayed and remote effects of focal cortical infarctions: secondary damage and reactive plasticity.</a> Advances in Neurology. 73, 207-227 (1997).</li><li>Hagemann, G., Redecker, C., Neumann-Haefelin, T., Freund, H. J., Witte, O. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Increased+long-term+potentiation+in+the+surround+of+experimentally+induced+focal+cortical+infarction.">Increased long-term potentiation in the surround of experimentally induced focal cortical infarction.</a> Annals of Neurology. 44, 255-258 (1998).</li><li>Kramer, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=TTC+staining+of+damaged+brain+areas+after+MCA+occlusion+in+the+rat+does+not+constrict+quantitative+gene+and+protein+analyses.">TTC staining of damaged brain areas after MCA occlusion in the rat does not constrict quantitative gene and protein analyses.</a> Journal of Neuroscience Methods. 187, 84-89 (2010).</li><li>Blinder, P., Shih, A. Y., Rafie, C., Kleinfeld, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Topological+basis+for+the+robust+distribution+of+blood+to+rodent+neocortex.">Topological basis for the robust distribution of blood to rodent neocortex.</a> Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 107, 12670-12675 (2010).</li><li>Nishimura, N., Rosidi, N. L., Iadecola, C., Schaffer, C. B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Limitations+of+collateral+flow+after+occlusion+of+a+single+cortical+penetrating+arteriole.">Limitations of collateral flow after occlusion of a single cortical penetrating arteriole.</a> Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow &amp; Metabolism. 30, 1914-1927 (2010).</li><li>Nishimura, N., Schaffer, C. B., Friedman, B., Lyden, P. D., Kleinfeld, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Penetrating+arterioles+are+a+bottleneck+in+the+perfusion+of+neocortex.">Penetrating arterioles are a bottleneck in the perfusion of neocortex.</a> Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 104, 365 (2007).</li><li>Blum, S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Memory+after+silent+stroke:+Hippocampus+and+infarcts+both+matter.">Memory after silent stroke: Hippocampus and infarcts both matter.</a> Neurology. 78, 38-46 (2012).</li><li>Heinsius, T., Bogousslavsky, J., Van Melle, G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Large+infarcts+in+the+middle+cerebral+artery+territory+Etiology+and+outcome+patterns.">Large infarcts in the middle cerebral artery territory Etiology and outcome patterns.</a> Neurology. 50, 341-350 (1998).</li><li>Wardlaw, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=What+causes+lacunar+stroke.">What causes lacunar stroke.</a> Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery &amp; Psychiatry. 76, 617-619 (2005).</li><li>Inoue, Y., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Ischemic+stroke+under+anticoagulant+therapy].+Rinsho+shinkeigaku.">Ischemic stroke under anticoagulant therapy]. Rinsho shinkeigaku.</a> Clinical Neurology. 50, 455-460 (2010).</li><li>Tiannan Wang, W. C., Xie, Y., Zhang, W., Ding, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Controlling+the+Volume+of+the+Focal+Cerebral+Ischemic+Lesion+through+Photothrombosis.">Controlling the Volume of the Focal Cerebral Ischemic Lesion through Photothrombosis.</a> American Journal of Biomedical Sciences. 2, 33-42 (2009).</li><li>Head, B. P., Patel, P. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Anesthetics+and+brain+protection.">Anesthetics and brain protection.</a> Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology. 20, 395-399 (2007).</li><li>Kirsch, J. R., Traystman, R. J., Hurn, P. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Anesthetics+and+cerebroprotection:+experimental+aspects.">Anesthetics and cerebroprotection: experimental aspects.</a> International Anesthesiology Clinics. 34, 73-93 (1996).</li><li>Koerner, I. P., Brambrink, A. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Brain+protection+by+anesthetic+agents.">Brain protection by anesthetic agents.</a> Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology. 19, 481-486 (2006).</li><li>Gelb, A. W., Bayona, N. A., Wilson, J. X., Cechetto, D. F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Propofol+anesthesia+compared+to+awake+reduces+infarct+size+in+rats.">Propofol anesthesia compared to awake reduces infarct size in rats.</a> Anesthesiology. 96, 1183-1190 (2002).</li><li>Bhardwaj, A., Castro, I. A., Alkayed, N. J., Hurn, P. D., Kirsch, J. R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Anesthetic+choice+of+halothane+versus+propofol:+impact+on+experimental+perioperative+stroke.">Anesthetic choice of halothane versus propofol: impact on experimental perioperative stroke.</a> Stroke; A Journal Of Cerebral Circulation. 32, 1920-1925 (2001).</li><li>Barretto, R. P., Messerschmidt, B., Schnitzer, M. 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The ability to translate experimental stroke pathophysiology from animal to human application has been plagued with failure. However, the use of animal models, such as the photothrombosis model, allows for improved understanding of stroke pathophysiology and the exploration of new therapeutic approaches to provide neuroprotection following a stroke. Small cortical strokes and microinfarctions produced by the photothrombotic model are clinically relevant to subclinical or &#8220;silent&#8221; stroke13-15, which...

The technique described permits visualization of in vivo cellular responses immediately following induction of Rose Bengal photothrombosis in an intact mouse. Rose Bengal (4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-2&#39;,4&#39;,5&#39;,7&#39;-tetraiodofluorescein) is a photosensitive dye used to induce ischemic stroke in animal models (mouse and rat). Following a bolus injection of RB through the tail vein and subsequent illumination through a thinned skull with a 564 nm laser light, a thrombus is induced causing a physiologic stroke1. The method was originally described by Rosenblum and El-Sabban in 1977, and was later adapted by Watson in the mid 1980s1,2. In brief, Rose Bengal is irradiated with green excitation light (561 nm laser in our case), which generates the production of reactive oxygen species, which subsequently activates tissue factor, an initiator of the coagulation cascade. The induction of the coagulation cascade produces an ischemic lesion that is pathologically relevant to clinical stroke3.
Stroke has a complex pathophysiology due to the interplay of many different cells types including neurons, glia, endothelium and the immune system. Choosing the best technique to study a particular cellular process requires multiple considerations. Experimental techniques fall broadly into one of three categories: in vitro, in vivo and in silico with each having advantages and disadvantages. In vitro studies have the primary disadvantage of removing cells from their natural environment and therefore may not reproduce effects seen in an intact, living animal. In vivo techniques provide for enhanced experimental replication of disease states with increased translational significance. In silico generally refers to computer modeling of a disease or cellular process, and while increasingly utilized to study potential drug interactions for example, any information gleaned must still be tested in living cells or tissue.
The ideal model of stroke in the laboratory setting should demonstrate similar pathological features to those seen in the human population. While there are common physiologic characteristics of stroke in the human population, there are also many differences depending on the type of injury experienced. Stroke in the human population occurs as small or large vessel occlusions, hemorrhagic lesions, and artery-to artery or cardio-embolisms that result in varied infarct volumes as well as differences in mechanisms related to each pathology. The advantage of utilizing animal stroke models is the generation of reproducible infarcts that mimic characteristics of human stroke. The most common animal stroke models include artery occlusion using: middle cerebral artery occlusion (embolic or endovascular filament methods) which models distal MCAO and the photothrombosis model. The advantages and disadvantages of each model have been reviewed elsewhere (see 4 and 5). Global ischemic models (MCAO), while relatively easy to perform are less relevant to human stroke than are focal stroke models. In addition, these methods are highly variable in inducing reproducible brain infarct lesions. The photothrombosis model is highly reproducible as long as the experimenter controls their experiments well, providing a clear advantage over MCAO models. However, due to microvasculature insult the model has been described to display a minimal ischemic penumbra, the area where cells are thought to be salvageable 6,7. Additionally, vasogenic edema and cytotoxic edema formation may also be induced following irradiation of the imaging area. Despite these limitations the technique has provided new insight into many physiological processes following stroke8,9,10,11.

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			<td>Reagents</td>
		</tr>
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			<td>Rose Bengal</td>
			<td>Sigma</td>
			<td>330000</td>
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			<td>aCSF&#160;</td>
			<td>126 mM NaCl, 2.5 mM KCl, 1.25 mM NaH2PO4, 2 mM MgCl2, 2 mM CaCl2, 10 mM glucose and 26 mM NaHCO3 (pH 7.4).</td>
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			<td>[header]</td>
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			<td>Equipment</td>
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			<td>Optosigma Co</td>
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			<td>Ear bar holder from stereotaxic setup</td>
			<td>Stoelting/Cyborg</td>
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			<td>DRE, Inc.</td>
			<td>15001</td>
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			<td>Tech IV Isoflurane vaporizer</td>
			<td>DRE, Inc.</td>
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			<td>DRE, Inc</td>
			<td>80120</td>
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			<td>DRE, Inc</td>
			<td>86111B</td>
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			<td>DRE, Inc</td>
			<td>891000</td>
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			<td>Foredom drill Dual voltage 110/120</td>
			<td>Foredom</td>
			<td>134.53</td>
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rose bengal photothrombosis by confocal optical imaging in vivo: a model of single vessel stroke

In vivo imaging techniques have increased in utilization due to recent advances in imaging dyes and optical technologies, allowing for the ability to image cellular events in an intact animal. Additionally, the ability to induce physiological disease states such as stroke in vivo increases its utility. The technique described herein allows for physiological assessment of cellular responses within the CNS following a stroke and can be adapted for other pathological conditions being studied. The technique presented uses laser excitation of the photosensitive dye Rose Bengal in vivo to induce a focal ischemic event in a single blood vessel. 
The video protocol demonstrates the preparation of a thin-skulled cranial window over the somatosensory cortex in a mouse for the induction of a Rose Bengal photothrombotic event keeping injury to the underlying dura matter and brain at a minimum. Surgical preparation is initially performed under a dissecting microscope with a custom-made surgical/imaging platform, which is then transferred to a confocal microscope equipped with an inverted objective adaptor. Representative images acquired utilizing this protocol are presented as well as time-lapse sequences of stroke induction. This technique is powerful in that the same area can be imaged repeatedly on subsequent days facilitating longitudinal in vivo studies of pathological processes following stroke.

The aim of this method was to induce an ischemic stroke in animal models (mouse and rat) following a bolus injection of RB through the tail vein and subsequent illumination of a thinned skull with a 561 nm laser light. The images in Figure 4 demonstrate the progression of clot formation within a single vessel following irradiation of the area at 0, 1, 1.5 and 2 min. Prior to clot formation the entire vessel is white due to free flowing Rose Bengal. Following the induction of irradiation of the vessel the...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Rose Bengal Photothrombosis by Confocal Optical Imaging In Vivo:  A Model of Single Vessel Stroke at JoVE.com

Rose Bengal Photothrombosis by Confocal Optical Imaging In Vivo:  A Model of Single Vessel Stroke

Here, we describe a semi-invasive optical microscopy approach for the induction of a Rose Bengal photothrombotic clot in the somatosensory cortex of a mouse in vivo. The technical aspects of the imaging procedure are described from induction of a photothrombotic event to application and data collection.

Rose Bengal Photothrombosis by Confocal Optical Imaging In Vivo: A Model of Single Vessel Stroke

In vivo imaging techniques have increased in utilization due to recent advances in imaging dyes and optical technologies, allowing for the ability to ...

rose-bengal-photothrombosis-confocal-optical-imaging-vivo-model

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

In vivo Dual Substrate Bioluminescent Imaging

Our understanding of how and when breast cancer cells transit from established primary tumors to metastatic sites has increased at an exceptional rate since the advent of in vivo bioluminescent imaging technologies 1-3. Indeed, the ability to locate and quantify tumor growth longitudinally in a single cohort of animals to completion of the study as opposed to sacrificing individual groups of animals at specific assay times has revolutionized how researchers investigate breast cancer metastasis. Unfortunately, current methodologies preclude the real-time assessment of critical changes that transpire in cell signaling systems as breast cancer cells (i) evolve within primary tumors, (ii) disseminate throughout the body, and (iii) reinitiate proliferative programs at sites of a metastatic lesion. However, recent advancements in bioluminescent imaging now make it possible to simultaneously quantify specific spatiotemporal changes in gene expression as a function of tumor development and metastatic progression via the use of dual substrate luminescence reactions. To do so, researchers take advantage for two light-producing luciferase enzymes isolated from the firefly (Photinus pyralis) and sea pansy (Renilla reniformis), both of which react to mutually exclusive substrates that previously facilitated their wide-spread use in in vitro cell-based reporter gene assays 4. Here we demonstrate the in vivo utility of these two enzymes such that one luminescence reaction specifically marks the size and location of a developing tumor, while the second luminescent reaction serves as a means to visualize the activation status of specific signaling systems during distinct stages of tumor and metastasis development. Thus, the objectives of this study are two-fold. First, we will describe the steps necessary to construct dual bioluminescent reporter cell lines, as well as those needed to facilitate their use in visualizing the spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression during specific steps of the metastatic cascade. Using the 4T1 model of breast cancer metastasis, we show that the in vivo activity of a synthetic Smad Binding Element (SBE) promoter was decreased dramatically in pulmonary metastasis as compared to that measured in the primary tumor 4-6. Recently, breast cancer metastasis was shown to be regulated by changes within the primary tumor microenvironment and reactive stroma, including those occurring in fibroblasts and infiltrating immune cells 7-9. Thus, our second objective will be to demonstrate the utility of dual bioluminescent techniques in monitoring the growth and localization of two unique cell populations harbored within a single animal during breast cancer growth and metastasis.

In vivo Dual Substrate Bioluminescent Imaging

Herein we describe the methods to construct, visualize, and quantify the bioluminescent reactions of both firefly and renilla luciferase enzymes expressed in metastatic breast cancer cells during their growth and metastasis in vivo.

Our understanding of how and when breast cancer cells transit from established primary tumors to metastatic sites has increased at an exceptional rate ...

An in vivo Assay to Test Blood Vessel Permeability

This method is based on the intravenous injection of Evans Blue in mice as the test animal model. Evans blue is a dye that binds albumin. Under physiologic conditions the endothelium is impermeable to albumin, so Evans blue bound albumin remains restricted within blood vessels. In pathologic conditions that promote increased vascular permeability endothelial cells partially lose their close contacts and the endothelium becomes permeable to small proteins such as albumin. This condition allows for extravasation of Evans Blue in tissues. A healthy endothelium prevents extravasation of the dye in the neighboring vascularized tissues. Organs with increased permeability will show significantly increased blue coloration compared to organs with intact endothelium. The level of vascular permeability can be assessed by simple visualization or by quantitative measurement of the dye incorporated per milligram of tissue of control versus experimental animal/tissue. Two powerful aspects of this assay are its simplicity and quantitative characteristics. Evans Blue dye can be extracted from tissues by incubating a specific amount of tissue in formamide. Evans Blue absorbance maximum is at 620 nm and absorbance minimum is at 740 nm. By using a standard curve for Evans Blue, optical density measurements can be converted into milligram dye captured per milligram of tissue. Statistical analysis should be used to assess significant differences in vascular permeability.

An in vivo Assay to Test Blood Vessel Permeability

We are presenting an in vivo assay to test blood vessel permeability. This assay is based on intravenous injection of a dye and subsequent visualization of its diffusion into interstitial spaces.

This method is based on the intravenous injection of Evans Blue in mice as the test animal model. Evans blue is a dye that binds albumin. Under ...

In vivo Imaging of Tumor Angiogenesis using Fluorescence Confocal Videomicroscopy

Fibered confocal fluorescence in vivo imaging with a fiber optic bundle uses the same principle as fluorescent confocal microscopy. It can excite fluorescent in situ elements through the optical fibers, and then record some of the emitted photons, via the same optical fibers. The light source is a laser that sends the exciting light through an element within the fiber bundle and as it scans over the sample, recreates an image pixel by pixel. As this scan is very fast, by combining it with dedicated image processing software, images in real time with a frequency of 12 frames/sec can be obtained.
We developed a technique to quantitatively characterize capillary morphology and function, using a confocal fluorescence videomicroscopy device. The first step in our experiment was to record 5 sec movies in the four quadrants of the tumor to visualize the capillary network. All movies were processed using software (ImageCell, Mauna Kea Technology, Paris France) that performs an automated segmentation of vessels around a chosen diameter (10 &mu;m in our case). Thus, we could quantify the 'functional capillary density', which is the ratio between the total vessel area and the total area of the image. This parameter was a surrogate marker for microvascular density, usually measured using pathology tools.
The second step was to record movies of the tumor over 20 min to quantify leakage of the macromolecular contrast agent through the capillary wall into the interstitium. By measuring the ratio of signal intensity in the interstitium over that in the vessels, an 'index leakage' was obtained, acting as a surrogate marker for capillary permeability.

In vivo Imaging of Tumor Angiogenesis using Fluorescence Confocal Videomicroscopy

In this paper, we present a method to analyze tumor microvessels in vivo using dynamic contrast-enhanced fluorescence videomicroscopy. Two quantitative parameters were acquired: functional capillary density reflecting the vascularity of the tumor, and index leakage reflecting the leakiness of the endothelial wall.

Fibered confocal fluorescence in vivo imaging with a fiber optic bundle uses the same principle as fluorescent confocal microscopy. It can excite ...

A Murine Model of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

In this video publication a standardized mouse model of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is presented. Bleeding is induced by endovascular Circle of Willis perforation (CWp) and proven by intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring. Thereby a homogenous blood distribution in subarachnoid spaces surrounding the arterial circulation and cerebellar fissures is achieved. Animal physiology is maintained by intubation, mechanical ventilation, and continuous on-line monitoring of various physiological and cardiovascular parameters: body temperature, systemic blood pressure, heart rate, and hemoglobin saturation. Thereby the cerebral perfusion pressure can be tightly monitored resulting in a less variable volume of extravasated blood. This allows a better standardization of endovascular filament perforation in mice and makes the whole model highly reproducible. Thus it is readily available for pharmacological and pathophysiological studies in wild type and genetically altered mice.

A standardized mouse model of subarachnoid hemorrhage by intraluminal Circle of Willis perforation is described. Vessel perforation and subarachnoid bleeding are monitored by intracranial pressure monitoring. In addition various vital parameters are recorded and controlled to maintain physiologic conditions.

In this video publication a standardized mouse model of subarachnoid  hemorrhage (SAH) is presented. Bleeding is induced by endovascular Circle of  Willis ...

In Vivo Optical Imaging of Brain Tumors and Arthritis Using Fluorescent SapC-DOPS Nanovesicles

We describe a multi-angle rotational optical imaging (MAROI) system for in vivo monitoring of physiopathological processes labeled with a fluorescent marker. Mouse models (brain tumor and arthritis) were used to evaluate the usefulness of this method. Saposin C (SapC)-dioleoylphosphatidylserine (DOPS) nanovesicles tagged with CellVue Maroon (CVM) fluorophore were administered intravenously. Animals were then placed in the rotational holder (MARS) of the in vivo imaging system. Images were acquired in 10&#176; steps over 380&#176;. A rectangular&#160;region of interest (ROI) was placed across the full image width at the model disease site. Within the ROI, and for every image, mean fluorescence intensity was computed after background subtraction. In the mouse models studied, the labeled nanovesicles were taken up in both the orthotopic and transgenic brain tumors, and in the arthritic sites (toes and ankles). Curve analysis of the multi angle image ROIs determined the angle with the highest signal. Thus, the optimal angle for imaging each disease site was characterized. The MAROI method applied to imaging of fluorescent compounds is a noninvasive, economical, and precise tool for in vivo quantitative analysis of the disease states in the described mouse models.

In Vivo Optical Imaging of Brain Tumors and Arthritis Using Fluorescent SapC-DOPS Nanovesicles

We describe a multi-angle rotational optical imaging (MAROI) system for in vivo quantitation of a fluorescent marker delivered by saposin C (SapC)-dioleoylphosphatidylserine (DOPS) nanovesicles. Employing mouse models of cancer and arthritis, we demonstrate how the MAROI signal curve analysis can be used for the precise mapping and biological characterization of disease processes.

We describe a multi-angle rotational optical imaging (MAROI) system for in vivo monitoring of physiopathological processes labeled with a fluorescent ...

Excitotoxic Stimulation of Brain Microslices as an In vitro Model of Stroke

Examining molecular mechanisms involved in neuropathological conditions, such as ischemic stroke, can be difficult when using whole animal systems. As such, primary or &#39;neuronal-like&#39; cell culture systems are commonly utilized. While&#160;these systems are relatively easy to work with, and are useful model systems in which various functional outcomes (such as cell death) can be readily quantified, the examined outcomes and pathways in cultured immature neurons (such as excitotoxicity-mediated cell death pathways) are not necessarily the same as those observed in mature brain, or in intact tissue. Therefore, there is the need to develop models in which cellular mechanisms in mature neural tissue can be examined. We have developed an in vitro technique that can be used to investigate a variety of molecular pathways in intact nervous tissue. The technique described herein utilizes rat cortical tissue, but this technique can be adapted to use tissue from a variety of species (such as mouse, rabbit, guinea pig, and chicken) or brain regions (for example, hippocampus, striatum, etc.). Additionally, a variety of stimulations/treatments can be used (for example, excitotoxic, administration of inhibitors, etc.). In conclusion, the brain slice model described herein can be used to examine a variety of molecular mechanisms involved in excitotoxicity-mediated brain injury.

Excitotoxic Stimulation of Brain Microslices as an In vitro Model of Stroke

We have developed a brain slice model which can be used to examine molecular mechanisms involved in excitotoxicity-mediated brain injury.&#160;This technique generates viable mature brain tissue and reduces animal numbers required for experimentation, whilst keeping the neuronal circuitry, cellular interactions, and postsynaptic compartments partly intact.

Examining molecular mechanisms involved in neuropathological conditions, such as ischemic stroke, can be difficult when using whole animal systems. As ...

Combined In vivo Optical and &#181;CT Imaging to Monitor Infection, Inflammation, and Bone Anatomy in an Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Mice

Multimodality imaging has emerged as a common technological approach used in both preclinical and clinical research. Advanced techniques that combine in vivo optical and &#956;CT imaging allow the visualization of biological phenomena in an anatomical context. These imaging modalities may be especially useful to study conditions that impact bone. In particular, orthopaedic implant infections are an important problem in clinical orthopaedic surgery. These infections are difficult to treat because bacterial biofilms form on the foreign surgically implanted materials, leading to persistent inflammation, osteomyelitis and eventual osteolysis of the bone surrounding the implant, which ultimately results in implant loosening and failure. Here, a mouse model of an infected orthopaedic prosthetic implant was used that involved the surgical placement of a Kirschner-wire implant into an intramedullary canal in the femur in such a way that the end of the implant extended into the knee joint. In this model, LysEGFP mice, a mouse strain that has EGFP-fluorescent neutrophils, were employed in conjunction with a bioluminescent Staphylococcus aureus strain, which naturally emits light. The bacteria were inoculated into the knee joints of the mice prior to closing the surgical site. In vivo bioluminescent and fluorescent imaging was used to quantify the bacterial burden and neutrophil inflammatory response, respectively. In addition, &#956;CT imaging was performed on the same mice so that the 3D location of the bioluminescent and fluorescent optical signals could be co-registered with the anatomical &#956;CT images. To quantify the changes in the bone over time, the outer bone volume of the distal femurs were measured at specific time points using a semi-automated contour based segmentation process. Taken together, the combination of in vivo bioluminescent/fluorescent imaging with &#956;CT imaging may be especially useful for the noninvasive monitoring of the infection, inflammatory response and anatomical changes in bone over time.

Combined In vivo Optical and  &amp;#181;CT Imaging to Monitor Infection, Inflammation, and Bone Anatomy in an Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Mice

Combined optical and &#956;CT imaging in a mouse model of orthopaedic implant infection, utilizing a bioluminescent engineered strain of Staphylococcus aureus, provided the capability to noninvasively and longitudinally monitor the dynamics of the bacterial infection, as well as the corresponding inflammatory response and anatomical changes in the bone.

Multimodality imaging has emerged as a common technological approach used in both preclinical and clinical research. Advanced techniques that combine in ...

Chemotherapy-induced Vascular Toxicity - Real-time In vivo Imaging of Vessel Impairment

Certain classes of chemotherapies may exert acute vascular changes that may progress into long-term conditions that may predispose the patient to an increased risk of vascular morbidity.&#160;Yet, albeit&#160;the mounting clinical evidence, there is a paucity of clear studies of vascular toxicity and therefore the etiology of a heterogeneous group of vascular/cardiovascular disorders remains to be elucidated. Moreover, the mechanism that may underlie vascular toxicity can completely differ from the principles of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, which is related to direct myocyte injury. We have established a real-time, in vivo molecular imaging platform&#160;to evaluate&#160;the potential&#160;acute&#160;vascular toxicity of anti-cancer therapies.
We have set up a platform of in vivo, high-resolution molecular imaging&#160;in mice,&#160;suitable for visualizing vasculature within confined organs and reference blood vessels within the same individuals whereas each individual serve as its own control. Blood vessel walls were impaired after doxorubicin administration, representing a unique mechanism of vascular toxicity that may be the early event in end-organ injury. Herein, the method of fibered confocal fluorescent microscopy (FCFM) based imaging is described, which provides an innovative mode to understand physiological phenomena at the cellular and sub-cellular levels in animal subjects.

Chemotherapy-induced Vascular Toxicity - Real-time In vivo Imaging of Vessel Impairment

We herein describe the method of fibered confocal fluorescent microscopy (FCFM) based imaging, which provides an innovative mode to understand physiological phenomena at the cellular and sub-cellular levels in animal subjects.

Certain classes of chemotherapies may exert acute vascular changes that may progress into long-term conditions that may predispose the patient to an ...

Photothrombosis-induced Focal Ischemia as a Model of Spinal Cord Injury in Mice

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating clinical condition causing permanent changes in sensorimotor and autonomic functions of the spinal cord (SC) below the site of injury. The secondary ischemia that develops following the initial mechanical insult is a serious complication of the SCI and severely impairs the function and viability of surviving neuronal and non-neuronal cells in the SC. In addition, ischemia is also responsible for the growth of lesion during chronic phase of injury and interferes with the cellular repair and healing processes. Thus there is a need to develop a spinal cord ischemia model for studying the mechanisms of ischemia-induced pathology. Focal ischemia induced by photothrombosis (PT) is a minimally invasive and very well established procedure used to investigate the pathology of ischemia-induced cell death in the brain. Here, we describe the use of PT to induce an ischemic lesion in the spinal cord of mice. Following retro-orbital sinus injection of Rose Bengal, the posterior spinal vein and other capillaries on the dorsal surface of SC were irradiated with a green light resulting in the formation of a thrombus and thus ischemia in the affected region. Results from histology and immunochemistry studies show that PT-induced ischemia caused spinal cord infarction, loss of neurons and reactive gliosis. Using this technique a highly reproducible and relatively easy model of SCI in mice can be achieved that would serve the purpose of scientific investigations into the mechanisms of ischemia induced cell death as well as the efficacy of neuroprotective drugs. This model will also allow exploration of the pathological changes that occur following SCI in live mice like axonal degeneration and regeneration, neuronal and astrocytic Ca2+ signaling using two-photon microscopy.

Photothrombosis is a minimally invasive and highly reproducible procedure to induce focal ischemia in the spinal cord and serves as a model of spinal cord injury in mice.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating clinical condition causing permanent changes in sensorimotor and autonomic functions of the spinal cord (SC) ...

Quantitative Visualization of Leukocyte Infiltrate in a Murine Model of Fulminant Myocarditis by Light Sheet Microscopy

Light-sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM), in combination with chemical clearing protocols, has become the gold standard for analyzing fluorescently labelled structures in large biological specimens, and is down to cellular resolution. Meanwhile, the constant refinement of underlying protocols and the enhanced availability of specialized commercial systems enable us to investigate the microstructure of whole mouse organs and even allow for the characterization of cellular behavior in various live-cell imaging approaches. Here, we describe a protocol for the spatial whole-mount visualization and quantification of the CD45+ leukocyte population in inflamed mouse hearts. The method employs a transgenic mouse strain (CD11c.DTR)that has recently been shown to serve as a robust, inducible model for the study of the development of fulminant fatal myocarditis, characterized by lethal cardiac arrhythmias. This protocol includes myocarditis induction, intravital antibody-mediated cell staining, organ preparation, and LSFM with subsequent computer-assisted image post-processing. Although presented as a highly-adapted method for our particular scientific question, the protocol represents the blueprint of an easily adjustable system that can also target completely different fluorescent structures in other organs and even in other species.

Here, we describe a light-sheet microscopy approach to visualize the cardiac CD45+ leukocyte infiltrate in a murine model of aseptic fulminant myocarditis, which is induced by the intratracheal diphtheria toxin treatment of CD11c.DTR mice.

Light-sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM), in combination with chemical clearing protocols, has become the gold standard for analyzing fluorescently ...