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Studying the Microanatomy of the Heart in Three Dimensions: A Practical Update

The structure and function of the heart needs to be understood in three dimensions. We give a brief historical summary of the methods by which such an understanding has been sought, and some practical details of the relatively new technique of micro-CT with iodine contrast enhancement in samples fro...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores principales: Jarvis, Jonathan C., Stephenson, Robert
Formato: Online Artículo Texto
Lenguaje:English
Publicado: Frontiers Media S.A. 2013
Materias:
Acceso en línea:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3864221/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24400272
http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fped.2013.00026
Descripción
Sumario:The structure and function of the heart needs to be understood in three dimensions. We give a brief historical summary of the methods by which such an understanding has been sought, and some practical details of the relatively new technique of micro-CT with iodine contrast enhancement in samples from rat and rabbit. We discuss how the improved anatomical detail available in fixed cadaveric hearts will enhance our ability to model and to understand the integrated function of the cardiomyocytes, conducting tissues, and fibrous supporting structures that generate the pumping function of the heart.