Fluorescence Molecular Tomography: An Imaging Technique for In Vivo Imaging of Fluorescent Protein-tagged Glioblastoma Xenografts in Mouse Model

Fluorescence molecular tomography or FMT is an imaging technique that helps determine the distribution of fluorescent proteins present in tumors. To perform FMT, begin by taking an anesthetized mouse. This mouse model is engineered to express near-infrared fluorescent proteins in the glioblastoma cells – the cancerous cells of the brain.

Now, place the mouse in the prone position in the center of an imaging cassette. Fasten the cassette lid and insert it into the docking station of an FMT imager. Once inside, identify an appropriate tumor area containing labeled glioblastoma cells. The near-infrared light penetrates deeply through the brain tissue reaching the target cells.

These light waves scan the entire tumor area at multiple points. Consequently, the fluorescent proteins within the glioblastoma cells produce fluorescent emission signals. These signals are then detected by the transillumination system from above, which generates high-quality 2D images from various locations within the selected tumor area.

Finally, use the software algorithms to combine these images and reconstruct a 3D-tomographic model that indicates tumor localization in the brain. After scanning, remove the mouse from the imaging cassette and allow it to recover.