Sensitive and non-invasive method for the in vivo analysis of membrane permeability in small animals.

Tissue membranes are boundaries that isolate organs or cavities in the body. These semi-permeable membranes are responsible for passive protection that acts through the regulation of nutrient absorption, secretion and filtration of small molecules. These functions could be altered as a consequence of inflammation or trauma, which in turn could lead to changes in permeability, allowing the entrance of toxins, antigens, proteins or facilitating the spread of tumors.