Aolong VISION90A Multi-Modal Small Animal In Vivo Imaging System (X-ray & Optional Fluorescence)

Overview

The Aolong VISION90A is a benchtop multi-modal small animal in vivo imaging system engineered for high-resolution, non-invasive X-ray radiography in preclinical research. Based on micro-focus X-ray projection geometry and digital flat-panel detector architecture, the system delivers quantitative 2D radiographic imaging with sub-micron spatial fidelity—enabling longitudinal morphological assessment without euthanasia or tissue sectioning. Unlike conventional cabinet X-ray systems, the VISION90A integrates an integrated lead-shielded enclosure compliant with GBZ 130–2020 (Chinese national standard for medical X-ray equipment radiation protection), eliminating the need for external shielding infrastructure. Its modular design supports future expansion with optional fluorescence bioluminescence imaging (BLI/FRI) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) modules—facilitating cross-modal validation in oncology, orthopedics, dental, and developmental biology workflows.

Key Features

• Integrated radiation-safe cabinet with stainless-steel interior lining for rapid decontamination and long-term corrosion resistance
• Micro-focus X-ray source (5 µm focal spot) optimized for high geometric magnification (up to 10×) and minimal penumbral blurring
• 16-bit digital flat-panel detector with 49 µm pixel pitch, delivering high dynamic range and low-noise signal acquisition
• Dedicated imaging workstation with real-time exposure control, live preview, and DICOM-compliant image export
• Proprietary image processing software supporting region-of-interest (ROI) measurement, pseudo-color overlay, contrast enhancement, and annotation tools
• Automated protocol storage: saves acquisition parameters, ROI definitions, and calibration settings per experiment for GLP-aligned reproducibility
• Flexible sample stage accommodating up to five small-animal specimens (e.g., mice, rats, rabbits) or ex vivo samples (teeth, embryos, seeds, PCBs) within a 150 × 100 mm FOV
• No requirement for operator certification in radiography—the system enforces dose-limiting interlocks and auto-exposure optimization

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VISION90A supports diverse biological and material specimens across life science and industrial domains. Validated use cases include murine tumor xenograft monitoring, longitudinal bone mineral density (BMD) tracking in osteoporosis models, dental arch analysis in rodent dentition studies, embryonic skeletal staging, seed viability screening, and fish skeletal morphology. Ex vivo applications extend to histopathology support (e.g., microcalcification localization in paraffin blocks, decalcification endpoint verification), medical device inspection (stents, catheters), and NDT of precision-engineered components (PCBs, castings, injection-molded polymers). The system conforms to GBZ 130–2020 for cabinet X-ray equipment leakage limits (<1 µSv/h at 5 cm from surface). While not FDA-cleared or CE-marked as a medical device, its hardware architecture and software audit trail capabilities align with core elements of ISO 13485 and 21 CFR Part 11 for regulated preclinical data integrity.

Software & Data Management

The bundled Aolong ImageSuite v3.x provides a validated, standalone environment for acquisition, quantification, and archival. All imaging sessions generate timestamped metadata including tube voltage, current, exposure time, detector gain, and geometric magnification. Users may define reusable protocols with embedded calibration references (e.g., aluminum step wedges, hydroxyapatite phantoms). Image datasets are stored in hierarchical folders with embedded EXIF-like headers; raw TIFF and compressed DICOM files are exportable. The software supports batch processing for intensity normalization, background subtraction, and linear dimension measurement (µm–cm scale) with traceable pixel-to-mm calibration. Audit logs record user login, parameter changes, and file exports—supporting internal QA review and regulatory readiness in GxP-aligned laboratories.

Applications

• Oncology: Tumor volume estimation via serial radiographic densitometry; vascular contrast agent kinetics (with iodinated agents)
• Orthopedics: Longitudinal quantification of trabecular architecture, fracture callus formation, and scaffold integration in bone regeneration studies
• Dentistry: High-resolution imaging of tooth enamel thickness, root canal morphology, and implant-bone interface in rodent mandibles
• Developmental Biology: Skeletal ossification staging in mouse embryos and neonatal pups; zebrafish spine curvature analysis
• Agricultural Science: Non-destructive detection of insect infestation, fungal hyphae, or embryo viability in cereal and legume seeds
• Industrial NDT: Void detection in solder joints, porosity mapping in aerospace alloys, and dimensional verification of microfluidic chips

FAQ

Is the VISION90A suitable for longitudinal in vivo studies in live mice?
Yes—the system is designed for repeated low-dose exposures (dose per frame < 5 mGy under standard settings) enabling weekly imaging over multi-week studies without significant radiobiological impact.

Can the system be upgraded to include fluorescence imaging after purchase?
Yes—Aolong offers field-installable fluorescence excitation/emission modules (445 nm/520 nm and 625 nm/690 nm bands) with motorized filter wheels and cooled sCMOS detection, retrofitted without hardware modification.

Does the software support automated bone segmentation or BMD calculation?
Basic ROI-based grayscale thresholding and Hounsfield-unit-equivalent calibration are included. Advanced segmentation and DXA-derived BMD analysis require the optional DXA module and dedicated Aolong BoneQuant add-on license.

What is the maximum specimen height accommodated by the sample chamber?
The standard chamber accepts specimens up to 120 mm in height; custom-height stages (up to 200 mm) are available upon request.

Is remote operation supported?
Yes—ImageSuite supports secure RDP and VNC-based remote desktop access for off-site monitoring and acquisition control, provided network policies permit encrypted traffic.