New Nano CT-Scanner Produces High-Resolution Images of Acute Areas

A group of researchers from the Technical University of Munich have developed a specialized CT-scanner device that can create highly detailed 3D images of specific tissue samples. The nano-CT scanner quickly captures images of soft tissues that would normally require sectioning and slide mounting. The device will ultimately help physicians save time evaluating images.

CT scanning soft tissue typically poses two major challenges: applying a toxic stain to the tissue that can damage the body, and traditional micro and nano scanners can’t produce sufficient resolution.

However, the Munich researchers have dedicated their recent investigations to pinpointing solutions to these issues. Last year, they analyzed the locomotory system of a velvet worm at a variety of angles with their nano-CT device that “creates three-dimensional X-ray images at resolutions of 100 nanometers.” They also invented a unique staining formula using eosin that streamlines scanning images of tissue samples for histological investigations. The researchers hope that the staining technique could be used in tandem with the nano ct-scanner.

Although this new nano CT scanner is efficient and produces comprehensive high-resolution images, the researchers suggest that the device should be used as a “supplementary technique” to standard methods. However, the researchers envision that the device could uncover the microscopic origins of major diseases like cancer.