Self TS, Ginn-Hedman AM, Kaulfus CN, et al. - Whether atherosclerotic plaques would be effectively characterized by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) paired with an iodine-based radiopaque stain in a manner comparable to routine histology while maintaining sample integrity and affording whole-volume data, was investigated in this study. Soft tissue delineation as well as subsequent atherosclerotic plaque evaluation via augmented radiopacity was enabled by iohexol staining, allowing three-dimensional reconstruction of these lesions, maintaining in situ architecture. Micro-CT failed to allow differentiation of cell types comprising the plaque, although plaque distribution as well as arterial wall tissue layers were discernable. Based on the findings, experts concluded that a powerful imaging modality for visualizing in situ architecture of atherosclerotic plaques is afforded by micro-CT combined with a diffusible radiopaque contrast agent. The results also indicated the utility of micro-CT in detecting plaque distribution and calcium deposition as a modality complementary to routine histological analysis.