A Neoscan N80 microCT scanner to enable next generation high-resolution 3D imaging in multi-disciplinary bioscience research
Lead Research Organisation:
Royal Veterinary College
Department Name: Comparative Biomedical Sciences CBS
Abstract
X-ray microcomputed tomography (microCT) is a non-destructive, precise procedure that allows the 3D imaging of biological samples at high resolution. This application is requesting funds to purchase a state-of-the-art, next generation microCT scanner, specifically a Neoscan N80 desktop microCT. The applications of this technology are broad but the primary use of the requested system would be for fundamental bioscience research across disciplines including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, renal, developmental and neurobiology as well as biomechanics. Consequently, this system would be used to facilitate novel research that is directly relevant to the strategic aim of the BBSRC to advance frontiers of bioscience discovery.
This application is requesting a Neoscan N80 scanner because it is the most advanced benchtop microCT available and has technical capabilities that far exceed other models. Specific advantages of the system include: (1) a spatial resolution of ~1micron, (2) x6 increased scanning capacity, (3) x4-6 faster scanning speed and automated sample loading, (4) temperature control, (5) in situ loading capabilities, (6) reduced noise, enhanced image correction and 3D reconstruction, (7) accessible and easy to use software and (8) improved environmental credentials (predicted lifespan >20 years). By combining all of these advantages, the N80 can rapidly produce higher quality 3D images of biological tissues with enough detail to allow the visualisation of small intricate structures much more readily. Furthermore, the greater scanning space and field of view will allow the analysis of samples previously too large to be imaged using a benchtop machine. This enhanced function and improved accessibility will also open the technology to many new users who, until now, have been unable to exploit the benefits of microCT scanning in their research.
The applicant team are all part of the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) musculoskeletal research group. The research undertaken by the applicants is multidisciplinary and ranges in scale from transcriptomics and cell biology through to in vivo small and large animal studies. Musculoskeletal biology is an area of bioscience research where microCT is an established and essential tool. Indeed it is the only effective way to assess bone architecture and, consequently, skeletal integrity. Therefore, the applicants are all very experienced with this technology and the important information it can generate to transform approaches to skeletal analysis. MicroCT is also a well-used method in biomechanics research and an emerging technique in many others (e.g. cardiovascular, renal, developmental and neurobiology). The technical advantages of the N80 system mean that it will allow biological samples to be studied and analysed in new, more detailed ways. This will generate novel information about how structure influences function in many different tissues and make the N80 a crucial research tool for internal RVC researchers and external project partners working in a range of biological disciplines. Obtaining this next generation microCT system would represent a significant enhancement of imaging capability within London and the South East. The substantial demand for the machine will also help to establish, grow and sustain research collaborations between the RVC, other academic institutions and industry for many years.
This application is requesting a Neoscan N80 scanner because it is the most advanced benchtop microCT available and has technical capabilities that far exceed other models. Specific advantages of the system include: (1) a spatial resolution of ~1micron, (2) x6 increased scanning capacity, (3) x4-6 faster scanning speed and automated sample loading, (4) temperature control, (5) in situ loading capabilities, (6) reduced noise, enhanced image correction and 3D reconstruction, (7) accessible and easy to use software and (8) improved environmental credentials (predicted lifespan >20 years). By combining all of these advantages, the N80 can rapidly produce higher quality 3D images of biological tissues with enough detail to allow the visualisation of small intricate structures much more readily. Furthermore, the greater scanning space and field of view will allow the analysis of samples previously too large to be imaged using a benchtop machine. This enhanced function and improved accessibility will also open the technology to many new users who, until now, have been unable to exploit the benefits of microCT scanning in their research.
The applicant team are all part of the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) musculoskeletal research group. The research undertaken by the applicants is multidisciplinary and ranges in scale from transcriptomics and cell biology through to in vivo small and large animal studies. Musculoskeletal biology is an area of bioscience research where microCT is an established and essential tool. Indeed it is the only effective way to assess bone architecture and, consequently, skeletal integrity. Therefore, the applicants are all very experienced with this technology and the important information it can generate to transform approaches to skeletal analysis. MicroCT is also a well-used method in biomechanics research and an emerging technique in many others (e.g. cardiovascular, renal, developmental and neurobiology). The technical advantages of the N80 system mean that it will allow biological samples to be studied and analysed in new, more detailed ways. This will generate novel information about how structure influences function in many different tissues and make the N80 a crucial research tool for internal RVC researchers and external project partners working in a range of biological disciplines. Obtaining this next generation microCT system would represent a significant enhancement of imaging capability within London and the South East. The substantial demand for the machine will also help to establish, grow and sustain research collaborations between the RVC, other academic institutions and industry for many years.
