Preliminary studies on the use of magnetic resonance imaging with Gd-DTPA to monitor ovarian function in subhuman primates.
These studies were initiated to explore the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate follicular growth in subhuman primates. Four adult cynomolgus monkeys received an i.v. injection of a magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agent, gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA), and ovaries were removed 1-20 min later. Gd-DTPA is an extracellular fluid marker that is readily detectable in MRI. Individual ovaries were imaged using a 3-in (7.62 cm) radiofrequency surface coil and a 1.5 Tesla magnet. MR images of these ovaries provided a high resolution visualization of follicles with diameters of 1 mm and greater. Results obtained with MRI were similar to hematoxylin/eosin-stained sections of the same ovaries photographed at low magnification. These results demonstrate that MRI provides excellent resolution of ovarian follicles in macaques and thus may be suitable to monitor follicular growth and atresia in this species.
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D008251:Macaca / Q000502:physiology*; D008252:Macaca fascicularis / Q000502:physiology*; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / Q000379:methods; D010053:Ovary / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D004369:Pentetic Acid
D004369:Pentetic Acid