Ultrasound conducted before a patient develops symptoms could improve early detection of diseases in blood vessels, according to a new study led by the University of Leicester. In the study, researchers used two mouse models of vascular disease – aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis (AAA) – in order to track disease progression. Their findings show that arterial distension can be used as an early marker for vascular changes associated with cardiovascular disease.

Ultrasound imaging is routinely used for diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of diseases, including AAA, and can provide fast, real-time information on the ability of arteries to expand and contract with cardiac pulsation and relaxation, often referred to as arterial distension.

As part of the study, mice were anaesthetised and had their physiological condition closely monitored during ultrasound imaging. Analysis of ultrasound scans revealed changes in the ability of blood vessels in the mice to pulsate as the disease state worsened, showing how ultrasound scanning can potentially result in early detection of reduced vascular function.

The results of this animal study could help to assess disease progression and alleviate symptoms in humans, according to the research team, led by the University of Leicester's College of Life Sciences working with researchers from Leicester's Hospitals.

"Our research shows that both lifestyle (dietary) and genetic factors can lead to increased risk of vascular disease. Our study also suggests that the ultrasound methods we employed can detect early changes in blood vessel function that can serve as a marker for detection of disease," says lead author Dr. Mike Kelly, Preclinical Imaging Manager from the University of Leicester. The study is published in the journal Ultrasound.

To translate scientific findings into improvements in human health, the use of animals remains an essential cornerstone of biomedical research, according to Dr. Kelly, who notes that the College of Life Sciences has created a modern facility, the PRF, to support such necessary research. The PRF houses various small animal species, and over 98 percent of the animals are rodents or fish. 

"The focus is on compassion and care for the animals, while enabling high quality research outcomes. The use of trained animal care and technical staff, along with a stringent local ethical review processes, and oversight from local and government bodies, ensure that animals are used only when essential and that their care and welfare is paramount," the doctor explains.

Image Credit: Pixabay 

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References:

Janus J, Kelly ME et al. (2018) A preclinical ultrasound method for the assessment of vascular disease progression in murine models. Ultrasound, Article first published online 7 August 2018. https://doi.org/10.1177/1742271X18793919 



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Ultrasound, Vascular Diseases, aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis Ultrasound conducted before a patient develops symptoms could improve early detection of diseases in blood vessels, according to a new study led by the University of Leicester. In the study, researchers used two mouse models of vascular disease – aortic a