Micro‐CT study of Bomirski melanoma growing in hamster eye

Abstract

PurposeThe Bomirski Hamster Melanoma (BHM) cell line has been successfully used as an eye tumor animal model in the studies on tumor vascular network, metastasis and radiation treatment. Visualization and modeling of neoangiogenesis is crucial for further ocular tumor research. This work presents visualization and image analysis of BHM eyeballs using X‐ray microtomography (micro‐CT).MethodsMicro‐CT is a nondestructive preclinical imaging method with isotropic micron resolution suitable for small ex‐vivo samples. This technique provides 3D distribution of linear attenuation coefficient realized as a stack of cross‐sectional images. The micro‐CT scanning and analysis protocol was optimized for simultaneous visualization of normal ocular tissues, and pathological vasculature of BHM. Micro‐CT image contrast was enhanced using iodine (Lugol's solution) staining technique. In this investigation the Bruker SkyScan 1272 micro‐CT system was used.ResultsThe iodine staining method provided well contrasted images presenting a globe anatomy in fine details. Advanced malignancy, with the tumor occupying the entire anterior chamber and the pathological disorganized irregular tumor vascular network was also visualized. Image analysis and processing allowed to distinguish grey level range corresponding to the particular globe and tumor structures. Quantitative analysis of BHM vessel size distribution and complexity level was performed.ConclusionsMicro‐CT enhanced with Lugol solution staining method has a great potential in preclinical eye tumor research using small animal models.