MicroCT Of Skeleton Can ID Even The Subtlest Birth Defects

Researchers have found a way to visualize subtle birth defects in prenatal and postnatal bats, mice, opossums, and primates using a technique called microscopic x-ray computed tomography (microCT).

The article discussed how scientists hope to use this techique to obtain an understanding of how a particular gene functions in a normal and abnormal case. This could potentially allow scientists to better understand birth defects and how to prevent them.

The article discussed how the technique discussed in the article coupled with gene function experiments, such as altering the expression of a particular gene, could be used for birth defect studies by geneticists.The scientists in the article apparently measured the differences between skull and limb shape as well as length for a range of animals commonly studied by geneticists.
Apparently the microCT is excellent for high-resolution, morphological (structural) study of developing bones.


http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/04/080430141049.htm