Avoiding artefacts in MicroCT imaging of collagen scaffolds: Effect of phosphotungstic acid (PTA)-staining and crosslink density.

ABSTRACT: X-ray micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) can be used to provide both qualitative and quantitative information on the structure of three-dimensional (3D) bioactive scaffolds. When performed in a dry state, μ-CT accurately reflects the structure of collagen-based scaffolds, but imaging in a wet state offers challenges with radiolucency. Here we have used phosphotungstic acid (PTA) as a contrast agent to visualise fully hydrated collagen scaffolds in a physiologically relevant environment. A systematic investigation was performed to understand the effects of PTA on the results of μ-CT imaging by varying sample processing variables such as crosslinking density, hydration medium and staining duration. Immersing samples in 0.3% PTA solution overnight completely stained the samples and the treatmen

SUBMITTER: Kwon KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8424391 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature