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Temperature controlled small animal platform for in vivo microcirculation studies
Author(s) -
Scheider Linda,
Berger Brian,
Torres Filho Ivo
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.768.1
Subject(s) - microcirculation , condenser (optics) , biomedical engineering , materials science , computer science , nanotechnology , optics , engineering , medicine , physics , light source , radiology
Mouse models are becoming more representative of human studies with the complete mapping of the mouse genome. Anesthetized mice may easily become hypothermic and exposed tissues are highly affected by environmental temperature changes. In certain applications, superfusion is not necessary: a dry, compact, inexpensive, temperature controlled platform with a clear viewing field is needed for these studies. We describe two designs for animal platforms with these characteristics. The platforms include a body heater and heated pedestal for tissue observation under an upright microscope. In the fixation area for the exposed tissue, a metal cylinder heats an isolated water column. The platforms use feedback sensors and controllers to maintain a constant body temperature. One platform is very compact and is about 13 mm in height for optimal distance between the substage condenser and the microcirculation. The second is slightly taller but uses all readily available inexpensive parts for easy assembly. These platforms are ideal for studies with transillumination of small animal microcirculation. Testing of the platforms showed constant temperatures were held with time and the components are durable and reliable. Support AD Williams Trust Funds, VCU.