US SON (1).pdf

Statement of Need: Ultrasound Imaging System for Mouse Embryonic Injection

A high-resolution ultrasound imaging system is required to enable precise, real-time visualization of mouse embryos during in utero injection procedures. This capability is essential for accurate targeting of embryonic structures, improving procedural consistency, and increasing overall success rates. The system will support a range of applications including developmental biology studies, gene delivery, and disease modeling that depend on reliable embryonic manipulation.

Ultrasound guidance will reduce technical variability, minimize embryo loss, and allow confirmation of injection placement during procedures. The equipment is necessary to ensure efficient execution of ongoing and future research protocols that cannot be performed with sufficient accuracy using current methods.

Support of NIH/HHS Mission

The requested ultrasound imaging system directly supports the NIH and HHS mission to advance fundamental knowledge and improve human health by enabling high-quality, reproducible biomedical research. By increasing precision and reliability in mouse embryonic manipulation, the system will enhance the rigor and reproducibility of experimental outcomes.

In addition, the equipment supports NIH priorities for responsible animal use by reducing the number of animals required to achieve statistically valid results and minimizing procedural invasiveness. The improved efficiency and data quality facilitated by this system will accelerate progress in understanding developmental processes and disease mechanisms, contributing to translational advances in human health.

Limitations of Current In-House Capabilities

Current in-house capabilities do not include imaging systems that provide real-time, high-resolution visualization of mouse embryos during in utero procedures. Existing approaches rely on anatomical estimation and external landmarks, which are inherently variable and limit the precision of embryonic injections.

Available imaging resources within the institute are either not configured for small animal embryonic work, lack the necessary resolution, or are not accessible for procedural guidance during live injections. As a result, current methods are associated with increased procedure time, lower success rates, and higher embryo loss.

Without access to an appropriate ultrasound imaging system, research activities requiring precise embryonic manipulation are constrained, less efficient, and more resource-intensive. Acquisition of this system is necessary to overcome these limitations and meet current research demands.