X-ray computed tomography of the spine and hip is an established method for quantitative bone mineral measurement that resolves elements with 1-millimeter size. For bone specimens, high-resolution laboratory computed tomography systems can describe cancellous bone architecture with resolved elements of about 50 micrometers. This is sufficient to describe bone volume, trabecular thickness and orientation, and connectivity. We have recently developed a new innovative method to perform quantitative computed tomography on an individual bone trabecula with resolved elements of 1 micrometer. Whole trabeculae are separated from cancellous bone specimens and scanned in a 250 micrometer diameter saline filled tube. A beam of x-rays from a synchrotron source is focused using a zone plate and used to make numerous measurements of radiation transmission. The measured data is then reconstructed to a 600 x 600 x 540 array of values having a spacing of 1/3 micrometers in the X, Y, and Z direction. High speed scanning devices will be used on this project to enable examination of 16 specimens per day. This method should be extremely valuable for evaluating the microscopic properties of bone tissue with respect to the mineralization of the matrix and porosity associated with osteocyte lacunae. To establish this value, four biomedical experiments are proposed for which genetic, pharmacologic, and biomechanic variables will be used to alter the bone tissue in animals. Prior experience indicates that these models should alter the mineralization and porosity at a microscopic scale.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01AR047994-03
Application #
6653243
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-OBM-2 (05))
Program Officer
Sharrock, William J
Project Start
2001-09-25
Project End
2005-08-31
Budget Start
2003-09-01
Budget End
2005-08-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2003
Total Cost
$107,250
Indirect Cost
Name
Henry Ford Health System
Department
Radiation-Diagnostic/Oncology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
073134603
City
Detroit
State
MI
Country
United States
Zip Code
48202