Data from: From tissue to silicon to plastic: three-dimensional printing in comparative anatomy and physiology

Comparative anatomy and physiology are disciplines related to structures
and mechanisms in three-dimensional (3D) space. For the past centuries,
scientific reports in these fields have relied on written descriptions and
two-dimensional (2D) illustrations, but in recent years 3D virtual
modelling has entered the scene. However, comprehending complex anatomical
structures is hampered by reproduction on flat inherently 2D screens. One
way to circumvent this problem is in the production of 3D-printed scale
models. We have applied computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging
to produce digital models of animal anatomy well suited to be printed on
low-cost 3D printers. In this communication, we report how to apply such
technology in comparative anatomy and physiology to aid discovery,
description, comprehension and communication, and we seek to inspire
fellow researchers in these fields to embrace this emerging technology.