Micro-CT visualization of the CNS: Performance of different contrast-enhancing techniques for documenting the spider brain.

ABSTRACT: Spider brain and central nervous system (CNS) have remained unexplored, due in part to the difficulty of observing these organs, usually only possible through histological preparations. Recently, internal anatomy studies have been supplemented by the inclusion of X- ray micro-CT. Unmineralized tissue such as the body of invertebrates requires a staining process to enhance tissue X-ray absorption and improve contrast during observation. Many current protocols are based on iodine staining requiring critical point drying (CPD) of the sample for optimal contrast. This process induces shrinking of the soft tissue generating artifacts in the morphology, volume, and even position of internal structures. Phosphotungstic acid (PTA) is an alternative staining agent recently used in marine invertebra

SUBMITTER: Rivera-Quiroz FA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9540357 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature