Quantitative real-time imaging of rodent skin adipose tissue remodeling in response to changes in metabolic state

Adipose tissue (AT) undergoes dynamic remodeling in response to differential nutritional supply. Changes in AT morphology accompany its functional changes, and imaging is a powerful tool for studying and understanding AT remodeling. Histopathological analysis conventionally used for studying AT remodeling requires tissue removal and processing, providing only a single time-point measurement. We developed a workflow capable of carrying out repeated measurements for longitudinal monitoring of the expansion and reduction of intact AT. Non-invasive real-time imaging of live mice was carried out to obtain stable scans which are then analyzed using our semi-automated labeling algorithm to obtain quantitative readouts. We investigated adipose tissue remodeling in mice of various metabolic conditions, such as obesity and hypercholesterolemia. Through this, we demonstrate AT live imaging as a promising tool for reflecting changes in metabolic status.