Observation of Rat's Testis by Crystal-based Phase Contrast X-ray CT

Abstract

Conventional X-ray absorption imaging method detects the difference of the linear absorption coefficient. The absorption difference of the soft tissue consisting of light elements is very small, so the discrimination of inner structure is difficult without contrast agent. On the other hand, the sensitivity for the light element of the phase contrast method, is higher approximately 1000 times than the X-ray absorption imaging method. Using crystal-based phase contrast X-ray technique, biological soft tissue can be visualized non-destructively, and the formalin fixed normal rat's testis was observed in this study. Crystal-based phase contrast X-rays CT depicted 100-200 μm seminiferous tubules, septa testis, albuginea and an epididymis in a testis. CT images were similar to an optical microscope with HE staining. Thus, the testicular structure including seminiferous tubule might be assessed by crystal-based phase contrast X-rays CT easily.