High-frequency Ultrasonography Based Early Pregnancy Characterization: A Technique to Study Embryo Implantation and Pregnancy Progression in Pregnant Murine Model

Abstract

Source: Peavey, M. C. et al. A Novel Use of Three-dimensional High-frequency Ultrasonography for Early Pregnancy Characterization in the Mouse. J. Vis. Exp. (2017)

In this video, we demonstrate high-frequency ultrasonography to image embryo implantation sites in a pregnant murine model. This imaging technique successfully detects viable pregnancy and characterizes embryo-implantation sites during early murine pregnancy.

Protocol

All procedures involving animal models have been reviewed by the local institutional animal care committee and the JoVE veterinary review board.

1. Imaging the Pregnant Mouse

1. Place mouse supine on the monitoring platform. The mouse continuously receives isoflurane anesthetic (between 1.5–2.5%) and oxygen (1 L/min) via the nose cone. Gently tape all paws to heart rate monitoring pads on the platform.
   1. Apply 1–2 mL of ultrasound transmission gel on abdomen.
2. Using the manual motor stage, position the ultrasound probe on the lower abdomen.
   1. Locate the bladder....

Results

Figure 1: High-frequency ultrasound detection of implantation site development and monitoring of fetal growth throughout gestation. As shown in Figure 1A, on 5.5 d.p.c. the lighter hyperechoic decidualized endometrium (D) al.......

Materials

List of materials used in this article

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
VisualSonics Vevo 2100 Ultrasound Imaging Platform/ Machine 	VisualSonics, inc. 	VS-11945
Vevo Imaging Station 	VisualSonics, inc.	SA-11982
Aquasonic 100 Ultrasound Transmission Gel  	Parker	#SKU PLI 01-08
Isoflurane (IsoThesia) 100mL bottle  	Henry Shein	#29404
PuraLubenAnimal Ophthalmic Ointment 	Dechra	 #12920060