In vivo ultrasound biomicroscopy in developmental biology

The mouse is the preferred animal model for studying mammalian developmental genetics and many human diseases. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) provides a unique real-time, in vivo micro-imaging approach for analyzing the phenotypes of mutant and transgenic mice from embryonic to adult stages. We review recent advances in the use of UBM and high-frequency ultrasound Doppler for analyzing the developing mouse cardiovascular system, and the application of in utero UBM image-guided injections for direct manipulation of mouse embryos. We describe currently available instrumentation, summarize the strengths and limitations of UBM and discuss the potential for future improvements to the technology.