Femur Window Chamber Model for In Vivo Cell Tracking in the Murine Bone Marrow

Overview

This protocol outlines a novel murine femur window chamber model for tracking neutrophil movement in the femoral bone marrow in vivo. Utilizing intravital multiphoton fluorescence microscopy, researchers can image the vasculature, collagen matrix, and neutrophils over time.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Bone Marrow Research

Background

• The femoral bone marrow is a key site for hematopoiesis.
• Understanding neutrophil behavior is crucial for insights into infection and tumor dynamics.
• Conventional imaging methods may not provide the necessary dynamic information.
• This technique allows for long-term access to observe cellular interactions.

Purpose of Study

• To perform long-term imaging of neutrophils in the murine bone marrow.
• To investigate the role of immune cells in infection and tumor progression.
• To provide a method for visualizing immune cell populations in vivo.

Methods Used

• Implantation of a chronic window chamber over the femoral bone.
• Intravital multiphoton fluorescence microscopy for imaging.
• Monitoring of neutrophil movement within vascular structures.
• Use of athymic nude mice for the procedure.

Main Results

• Successful long-term imaging of neutrophils in the femoral bone marrow.
• Dynamic tracking of cellular interactions within the vascular network.
• Insights into the behavior of immune cells in response to various stimuli.
• Potential applications in studying tumorigenesis and metastasis.

Conclusions

• The femur window chamber model is effective for in vivo imaging of neutrophils.
• This method enhances understanding of immune cell dynamics in bone marrow.
• It opens avenues for research in immunology and oncology.

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