High-resolution contrast-enhanced microCT reveals the true three-dimensional morphology of the murine placenta

Significance During pregnancy, the placenta functions as surrogate fetal lungs, kidneys, and gut. Proper placental functioning is therefore paramount during embryonic development. Indeed, placental defects are highly prevalent in mouse mutants showing embryonic death. Here we validate a contrast agent that allows development of the intact placenta to be visualized using microfocus computed topography. This technique enables an initial 3D inspection of the overall placental structure and provides the possibility to quantify different compartments in the placenta. Moreover, the nondestructive nature of this contrast agent permits further histological processing of the same sample when defects are observed.