Micro-magnetic resonance imaging of ex vivo mouse embryos with potato starch suspension

Potato starch suspension (PSS) holds promise as a solution to issues, such as air bubbles and specimen motion, associated with micro-magnetic resonance imag-ing (micro-MRI) of ex vivo embryos. Here, we present a protocol for using PSS when scanning specimens with micro-MRI. We describe steps for preparing sam-ples and potato starch with phosphate-buffered saline. We then detail steps for specimen immersion and micro-MRI scanning. This protocol will enable micro-MRI of not only embryos but also other specimens, such as insects. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Tsurugizawa et al.1

Automated summary

Potato starch suspension (PSS) shows potential in addressing issues related to micro-magnetic resonance imaging (micro-MRI) of ex vivo embryos, such as air bubbles and specimen motion. This paper presents a protocol for using PSS in micro-MRI scanning, including steps for sample and potato starch preparation with phosphate-buffered saline, as well as specimen immersion and micro-MRI scanning. The protocol is applicable not only to embryos but also to other specimens like insects. For complete details, please refer to Tsurugizawa et al.1.