Visualising the 3D microstructure of stained and native intervertebral discs using X-ray microtomography.

ABSTRACT: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is linked to low back pain. Microstructural changes during degeneration have previously been imaged using 2D sectioning techniques and 3D methods which are limited to small specimens and prone to inducing artefacts from sample preparation. This study explores micro computed X-ray tomography (microCT) methods with the aim of resolving IVD 3D microstructure whilst minimising sample preparation artefacts. Low X-ray absorption contrast in non-mineralised tissue can be enhanced using staining and phase contrast techniques. A step-wise approach, including comparing three stains, was used to develop microCT for bovine tail IVD using laboratory and synchrotron sources. Staining successfully contrasted collagenous structures; however not all regions were stai

SUBMITTER: Disney CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5701246 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature