A research team from CEITEC BUT led by Markéta Kaiser participated in an international study to investigate the effect of protein intake on the fetus during pregnancy. The study was conducted on mice, or mouse embryos to be more precise. Thanks to the imaging possibilities offered by computed tomography in our CT Lab CEITEC, it was possible to create illustrative 3D models of cartilaginous tissue that clearly showed the differences between mouse embryos with different protein intakes.
At CT Lab CEITEC, researchers led by Prof. Jozef Kaiser focus on basic and applied research in collaboration with industry. The industrial partners are critical in applied research. Computed tomography is a non-invasive, non-destructive method that allows the detection of cracks or other defects on a wide variety of components so that if a company discovers that there is a problem somewhere, the CT Lab staff can detect and describe the problem without the company having to cut up or otherwise dismember the expensive product or component. The knowledge gained in this way in turn advances the researchers’ understanding of the phenomenon.
When it comes to basic research, the researchers are involved in so-called reverse engineering, where professional data display and analysis programs, which are primarily designed for mechanical engineering, are used in biology. Using advanced methods, they are able to image not only bones but also soft tissues such as cartilage or muscles.
This is also the subject of the recently published study <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46030-3">“The level of protein in the maternal murine diet modulates the facial appearance of the offspring via mTORC1 signaling”</a>, which appeared in prestigious Nature Communications.
Scientists from the Laboratory of X-ray Computational Micro and Nanotomography at CEITEC, led by Markéta Kaiser, have been collaborating on this study since 2018. The multidisciplinary international team was coordinated by prof. Andrei Chagin from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. “Since then, dozens of samples have been analysed in our laboratory. Our task was not only to create 3D models of cartilage tissue, but also to analyze these 3D models. Here, we have the advantage of being a technical university and working closely with industry in the lab, and so we are using just industrial tools in biological research in a somewhat unconventional way, which is not quite so common and can bring interesting insights into these interdisciplinary studies,” says Markéta Kaiser.
We now know that facial shape and features in mammals are influenced not only by genetics but also by the mother’s lifestyle during pregnancy. It is known that, for example, the consumption of alcohol or other addictive substances can lead to facial abnormalities or developmental disorders. The present study reveals a possible new link between the offspring’s face and pregnancy lifestyle, specifically protein intake during pregnancy.
The study was conducted on mice or mouse embryos. “Specifically, the researchers focused on the mTORC1 signaling pathway, and whether protein content in pregnancy diet affects mTORC1 and plays a role in facial bone structure. Pregnant mice were fed a low- and high-protein diets, then the effect on the aforementioned signalling pathway was investigated and facial development in mouse embryos was compared,“ Markéta Kaiser explains the methodology.
It was at this point that X-ray computed tomography analysis played a key role. Scientists from CEITEC BUT created 3D models of the cartilaginous tissue that is the basis for the subsequent development of the face. The differences between embryos from mice having different protein diets were noticeable, albeit very subtle. For example, an enlarged nasal cavity or an elongated jaw were observed. Therefore, the study shows that the amount of protein in the diet can affect mTORC1 and thus the subsequent musculoskeletal development of the individual.
This collaboration certainly does not end with the published article. The researchers already have more projects planned that could help unravel other processes related to more than just facial development.
<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Prijem_bilkovin_matky_behem_tehotenstvi_muze_ovlivnit_vyvoj_obliceje_novorozence_e682d5cd06.jpg" alt="CEITEC BUT: 3D cartilage tissue models of mouse embryos created using X-ray computed microtomography. The different colours of the models represent different protein diets."/>

Mother’s protein intake during pregnancy can affect newborn’s facial development

In November 2025, the X-ray Computed Tomography Laboratory at CEITEC Brno University of Technology will be expanded with a new state-of-the-art phoenix v|tome|x L450 computed tomography scanner from Waygate Technologies. This high-performance device will expand the laboratory's already unique and extensive range of equipment and take research and industry collaboration to a whole new level.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CTLAB_CEITEC_Novy_vypocetni_tomograf_odhali_dutiny_a_vady_u_velkych_prumyslovych_dilu_f2c8ce5cdb.jpg" alt="CTLAB CEITEC: New computed tomography scanner detects cavities and defects in large industrial parts" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CTLAB_CEITEC_Novy_vypocetni_tomograf_odhali_dutiny_a_vady_u_velkych_prumyslovych_dilu_f2c8ce5cdb.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067">The Phoenix v|tome|x L450 is designed for non-destructive testing and measurement of larger and heavier samples, which until now have been almost impossible to inspect using this technology. Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging method that uses X-rays to create detailed 3D images. Using a computer, a large number of 2D images (up to 5,000) are assembled using tomographic reconstruction to create a 3D model that shows the internal structure of the sample without damaging it. The method is best known in healthcare, where it allows doctors to see the body in cross-sections, and diagnose various medical conditions.At the X-ray Computed Tomography Laboratory at CEITEC BUT (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ctlab.ceitec.cz/about-us/?_gl=1*13y0662*_ga*OTU0MTYzNzc1LjE3Mzg5MTQ2MDk.*_ga_L74QG6CYBE*czE3NjQwNTc2Nzkkbzg3JGcxJHQxNzY0MDU4MTg2JGo2MCRsMCRoMA..">CTLAB CEITEC</a>), we specialize in contract research, among other things. We provide expertise to industrial partners from a wide range of sectors, from automotive and aviation to defense and aerospace. “We can detect hidden defects, whether cracks or porosity, check internal geometric structures, inspect electrical assemblies, and more. This detailed information helps optimize production processes, ensure reliability, improve performance, and extend product life,” says Jozef Kaiser, head of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/advanced-instrumentation-and-methods-for-materials-characterization/rg6">Advanced Instrumentation and Methods for Materials Characterization</a> research group to which the laboratory belongs.The new computed tomography scanner will enable applications for the defense and aerospace industries, as well as research into new materials and structured composites.“With the L450 device, we gain access to breakthrough technology in the field of non-destructive analysis of materials and components – especially for large, dense, or composite objects, where existing technologies have reached their limits,” adds Tomáš Zikmund, head of the laboratory.<h4>What the phoenix v|tome|x L450 can do</h4>The phoenix v|tome|x L450 CT system stands out thanks to its high-energy X-ray source of up to 450 kV and robust mechanical design, making it ideal for:<ul><li>analyzing large and heavy parts, including metal castings, composites, or plastic assemblies with dense components (Maximum scan volume: Ø800 x 1250 mm, Maximum sample height: 2 m, Maximum sample weight: 200 kg, Minimum focal spot: 63 µm),</li><li>defectoscopy, i.e. detection of internal defects, cracks, cavities, and delaminations without destroying the sample,</li><li>3D metrology, i. e. accurate, non-contact measurement of internal geometry with high resolution,</li><li>digital archiving, and reverse engineering.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CTLAB_CEITEC_Novy_pocitacovy_tomograf_Phoenix_vtomex_L450_2dfef07a4d.jpg" alt="CTLAB CEITEC: Phoenix v|tome|x L450" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CTLAB_CEITEC_Novy_pocitacovy_tomograf_Phoenix_vtomex_L450_2dfef07a4d.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067"><h4>Tested on a student formula car</h4>Before purchase, the L450 device was tested directly at the manufacturer’s premises in Germany – on a BUT student racing car project (TU Brno Racing team). The device was used to perform a detailed 3D CT scan of the carbon monocoque of the Dragon e15 racing car. The results of the analysis confirmed not only the ability of the device to detect subtle defects in composite structures, but also its potential in the development of highly safe and lightweight designs.<h4>Significant expansion of competencies</h4>The new device will complement the existing equipment of the computed tomography laboratory at CEITEC BUT, which is already unique in Central Europe. “The L450 will enable us not only to expand our research activities, but also to offer advanced services to companies and partners working with large or complex components,” concludes Jozef Kaiser.

New computed tomography scanner detects cavities and defects in large industrial parts

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Je výzkumné centrum zaměřené na oblast živých věd, pokročilých materiálů a technologií.  Vznikl v roce 2011 na základech šesti významných brněnských univerzit a výzkumných institucí. Od doby jeho nedávného vzniku se daří budovat významné vědecké centrum, a již nyní se řadí mezi špičkové evropské instituce.

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