Research

Research foci

The Division of Veterinary Anatomy investigates the functional morphology of organs, tissues, cells and subcellular structures. The group's  goal is to contribute to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, with the research organized around two main priorities:

1. Cellular mechanisms of normal and artificial skin and blood vessels in different animal species -  under physiological conditions and after exposure to therapeutic substances or pathogens.
2. Interdisciplinary research in collaboration with other sub-disciplines of the Vetsuisse Faculty as well as with other faculties and institutions.

In addition, the division focuses on the development and application of microscopic techniques, including scanning and transmission electron microscopy, wide-field, confocal, and high-throughput microscopy, supplemented by machine learning methods.

The division actively promotes young scientists by supervising master's, doctoral, PhD, and postdoctoral projects.

Adoption of augmented reality (AR) in veterinary anatomy

To provide flexible anatomy study based on defined learning aims, augmented reality teaching units with realistic animal models are developed through continuous user feedback. Learning progress is tracked by self-tests.

AR in der Veterinär-Anatomie

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The team of Veterinary Anatomy, in collaboration with the Institute of Medical Education, develops innovative AR learning units based on original animal CT data, creating a direct link to clinical imaging. The modules are didactically structured, aligned with clearly defined learning objectives, and include self-assessment tests. Student feedback on usability and user experience is continuously collected and directly integrated into ongoing development. Learning outcomes achieved with AR are compared to those from conventional teaching using preserved specimens.

Up to now, practical anatomy teaching in veterinary medicine has mainly relied on preserved animal specimens, whose procurement is labor-intensive and whose availability for students remains limited. Through the systematic integration of innovative AR learning units, a forward-looking, flexible, and sustainable approach is now being established that modernizes practical anatomical training.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impact of iodinated contrast media on microvascular structures in vitro

This study uses in vitro 3D capillary networks are embedded in self-assembled connective tissue to explore the structural changes of capillaries, subcellular changes of endothelial cells, and the release of stress biomarkers that occur early after the administration of X-rayradiological contrast media and may be contributing factors to contrast-induced acute kidney injury.

AR in der Veterinär-Anatomie

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Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) is characterized by a loss of kidney function following the administration of radiological contrast agents. This project aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the early effects of iodinated contrast agents on microvascular capillary beds in vitro and on the kidney function of patients. In the in vitro approach the structural effects of two different contrast media (Iobitridol and Iodixanol) on vascular endothelial capillaries are quantified and ultrastructural changes in endothelial organelles, basement membranes, and intercellular spaces, as well as the release of stress biomarkers are evaluated. In the in vivo approach analyzes the effects of iobitridol and iodixanol on the renal function of patients who have undergone cardiac catheterization, including intra-arterial administration of contrast agents are analyzed by measuring serum creatinine (SCr) concentration[BD1] . SCR is a byproduct of muscle metabolism that is mainly excreted by the kidneys and therefore an indicator for kidney function.

The qualitative comparison of both approaches will identify differences, similarities, and possible correlations between in vitro and in vivo exposure.

Publications

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