A cationic near infrared fluorescent agent and ethyl-cinnamate tissue clearing protocol for vascular staining and imaging.

ABSTRACT: Understanding vascular structures and dysfunction is a fundamental challenge. This task has been approached by using traditional methodologies such as microscopic computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Both techniques are not only expensive but also time-consuming. Here, we present a new method for visualizing vascular structures in different organs in an efficient manner. A cationic near infrared (NIR) fluorescent dye was developed with attractive features to specifically stain blood vessels. Furthermore, we refined the process of organ staining and harvesting by retrograde perfusion and optimized the subsequent dehydration and clearing process by the use of an automatic tissue processor and a non-toxic substance, ethyl-cinnamate. Using this approach, the time interval betwee

SUBMITTER: Huang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6345820 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature