Lung Imaging in Animal Models

Abstract

Tissue imaging is broadly used to understand and monitor the progression of pathologic processes. It contributes information that cannot be obtained by any other techniques, such as the localization and dynamic interaction of key contributors to pathology. Technological advances now enable detailed morphological observations, not only ex vivo, but also in vivo. However, to image the lung in vivo, researchers had to overcome several inherent challenges, such as its difficult accessibility in the thoracic wall and respiratory motion. Lung imaging techniques can be divided into high-resolution techniques that provide descriptions of detailed anatomical structures using fluorescence microscopy, and techniques that allow for functional investigations like positron emission tomography (PET) and bioluminescence imaging (BLI). Fluorescence microscopy, especially intravital approaches, requires complex preparation and surgery, but is also the method that provides the best resolution, and it is a powerful tool for discovery. The aim of this chapter is to present the different techniques currently available for imaging the lung in experimental studies. We will evaluate and compare their potential for application in animal models of lung injury and repair.