Enhancing tissue regeneration studies with luciferase-transgenic rats and bioluminescence imaging: A comprehensive review

Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) in rodent models has revolutionized preclinical research in recent decades, enabling precise and noninvasive observation of cellular and molecular processes in vivo. Among various bioluminescent systems, the firefly luciferase-luciferin system is one of the most widely employed for in vivo cell tracking. This comprehensive review focuses on using luciferase-transgenic (Luc-Tg) rat models, known as firefly rats, in conjunction with BLI to investigate tissue regeneration and stem cell dynamics. Compared with other imaging modalities, BLI offers enhanced tissue penetration, reduced background noise, and the capacity to perform longitudinal studies with fewer animals, aligning with ethical research principles. Applications of Luc-Tg rats in fat grafting, soft tissue expansion, hair growth cycle analysis, and other skin studies are discussed, demonstrating the versatility and precision of BLI in tracking complex biological processes. Integrating advanced analytical and genome-editing techniques with BLI promises to enhance data interpretation’s accuracy and efficiency. These advancements have deepened our understanding of the cellular fate and mechanisms underlying tissue regeneration, presenting promising avenues for optimizing therapeutic strategies in reconstructive surgery and regenerative medicine. Combining luciferase reporter genes and BLI is crucial to unraveling complex biological phenomena, advancing soft tissue regeneration research, and developing innovative therapeutic strategies for various medical conditions.