Table 5 Detailed protocol for whole mice brain preparation for micro-CT with iodine.

From: High-resolution micro-CT for 3D infarct characterization and segmentation in mice stroke models

Step

Solution

Time (min)

Temp. (°C)

Perfusion

Lethal anesthesia

Ketamine/medetomidine, IP

5

22

Blood perfusion

PBS

10

22

Brain fixation

4% PFA, in PBS

10

22

Post-fixation

Fixation

4% PFA, in PBS

 7-60 days

4

Staining

Dehydration

30%, 50%, 70%, 80%, 90% ethanol

2 h, each

22

Iodine

1% iodine, in 90% metanol (15 mL/brain)

24 h

22

micro-CT prep

Preparation

Parafilm® wrapping

2

22

Brain Storing

Short-term

Protected from light; Sealed container

3–12 months

4

Long-term

Dehydration; Resin embedding

Years

22