General Information about Micro-Computed Tomography (Micro-CT)
In recent years, micro-CT has become a firmly established method in research. It allows for the high-resolution representation of even the most minor structures with the highest spatial resolution. High-resolution datasets can be created with short scan times. In addition, fluoroscopy and digital subtraction angiography are also possible. As a minimally invasive technique, micro-CT enables in vivo imaging to capture longitudinal developments, which reduces the number of animals used in animal experiments (the 3R principle) while simultaneously improving the quality and accuracy of the results.

Applications of Micro-CT
In detail, micro-CT allows for highly detailed investigations of osseous structures (complete skeleton, bones, bone fragments, fracture healing, teeth, etc.) both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, blood vessels can be imaged with high resolution, either in vivo as CT angiography, digital subtraction angiography, or ex vivo after perfusion with X-ray-dense polymers (e.g., angiogenesis). Various organs and tissues, including pathological processes, can also be analyzed and differentiated both ex vivo and in vivo (liver and lung metastases, inflammatory and other lung conditions, brain tumors, bone tumors, colon polyps, kidneys, bladder, spleen, and a variety of different organ systems). Of course, materials and other X-ray-dense technical objects can also be analyzed.
One of the key features of micro-CT is its ability to generate 3D images of structures, which allows for a detailed analysis of their shape, structure, and volume. This has profound implications in medical fields such as orthopedics, dentistry, and cancer research. By creating three-dimensional models of bones, organs, and even tumors, doctors and researchers can study these structures from every angle, making it easier to plan surgeries or analyze disease progression.
Additionally, micro-CT plays an essential role in advancing the 3R principle in animal research. This ethical guideline aims to Reduce, Refine, and Replace the use of animals in experiments. Micro-CT reduces the number of animals needed in research by providing high-quality imaging data without invasive procedures. This makes it a powerful tool for improving the accuracy of scientific studies while minimizing animal usage.

Requests for Small Animal Micro-CT Usage
If you are interested or unsure whether the planned examinations can be carried out using micro-CT, please contact us through our e-mail. In addition to micro-CT, we also have other imaging methods for larger objects and operate, alongside a micro-CT, Germany’s first and only ultra-high-resolution clinical computed tomography (UHR-CT / Aquilion Precision) and clinical magnetic resonance imaging systems at 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla field strengths.
Attached are some image examples and sources from our research group related to studies and collaborative projects surrounding micro-CT. Please do not hesitate to reach out for any questions.

Our 9.4 Tesla MRI from Bruker is a powerful imaging tool with exceptional resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, making it ideal for small animal research. With its high magnetic field strength, the system provides detailed imaging at the microscopic level, allowing researchers to study minor structures, which is crucial for preclinical studies.
In neuroscience, this MRI is invaluable for high-resolution brain imaging, enabling detailed studies of brain morphology, functional imaging, and neural activity, especially in models of neurodegenerative diseases, brain tumors, and treatments affecting brain function. The system also supports functional MRI (fMRI), which tracks brain activity by monitoring changes in blood flow.
In oncology, this MRI is crucial for early tumor detection and monitoring treatment responses. Its high resolution enables the detection of small-sized tumors, making it essential for cancer research, including studying tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy efficacy.
The 9.4 Tesla MRI also excels in musculoskeletal research by providing detailed images of bones, joints, cartilage, and muscles, helping researchers study conditions like osteoarthritis and bone fractures. The system also supports multimodal imaging, combining MRI with other techniques, such as PET or CT, for a more comprehensive view of small animal physiology.
In conclusion, the Bruker 9.4 Tesla MRI opens up new possibilities for small animal imaging, offering unmatched precision for studying the brain, heart, tumors, and musculoskeletal system, which is vital for advancing preclinical research and developing new therapies.

Requests for Small Animal MRI Use
If you are interested or unsure whether the planned examinations can be carried out using MRI, please contact us through our e-mail. In addition to small animal, we also have other imaging methods for larger objects and operate our clinical magnetic resonance imaging systems at 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla field strengths.
Please do not hesitate to reach out for any questions.

Our PRISM staff provides cutting-edge imaging services to support your research across various applications. From initial consultations to data acquisition and detailed image analysis, we offer a full spectrum of services to help you gather valuable insights into your studies, whether you are exploring neurological conditions, cancer research, cardiovascular health, or musculoskeletal diseases. Here’s an overview of the services we offer, guiding you through every step of the imaging process: