title: Studying the microanatomy of the heart in three dimensions: a practical update.
abstract: The structure and function of the heart needs to be understood in three dimensions. We give a brief historical summary of the methods by which such an understanding has been sought, and some practical details of the relatively new technique of micro-CT with iodine contrast enhancement in samples from rat and rabbit. We discuss how the improved anatomical detail available in fixed cadaveric hearts will enhance our ability to model and to understand the integrated function of the cardiomyocytes, conducting tissues, and fibrous supporting structures that generate the pumping function of the heart.
authors.affiliation: School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University , Liverpool , UK.
authors.forename: Jonathan C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Jarvis
authors.affiliation: Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool , Liverpool , UK.
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Stephenson
keywords: 3-D visualisation; cardiac anatomy; cardiomyocytes; iodine contrast; micro-CT; tractography