Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Section

The studies are performed with the animal anaesthetised, following an induction of anaesthesia protocol in the chamber, using Isoflurane and O2, and maintaining the anaesthesia using a facial mask in the animal positioner inside the equipment.

Live mice, which are to undergo imaging and spectroscopy studies, will be housed in cages with filters, in permanent quarantine in the Experimental Animal Facility.

At the time of an imaging study, each animal will be transported individually to the MRI unit on the same day and, once the study has been completed, will return to the quarantine room, maintaining the environmental and disinfection conditions within the recommended range and compatible with the development of the research.

The procedures carried out in the MRI unit, as well as the transport and housing of the animals, must comply with the legislative requirements relating to experimental animals (Directive 2010/63/EU, Royal Decree 1201/2005 and Decree 296/2008), and therefore prior express authorisation must be requested before carrying out these experimental techniques.

Users interested in carrying out MRI and in vivo spectroscopy studies should contact the MRI section and the Experimental Animal Facility in Lugo in order to organise their scheduling.