Small Animal Implantable Telemetry
The Indus Small Animal Telemetry System and associated wireless implants offer a simplified and cost-effective approach to studying physiology in conscious, unrestrained small animals. Scientists are able to monitor ECG, Heart Rate, Core Body Temperature and Activity in multiple, socially housed, animals simultaneously.
The system consists of four core components:
- Telemetry Communication Module
- Wireless Charging Station
- Wireless Implant
- Data Acquisition Software
ECG
Subcutaneously-sutured leads allow researchers to record high-resolution heart rhythm free of anesthesia.
Temperature
Core Temperature can identify changes in circadian rhythm, inflammatory response, environment, and more.
Activity
Accelerometers provide data useful for identifying circadian rhythm and general subject movement.
Heart Rate
High frequency measurements allow researchers to track long-term and short-term autonomic responses.
Wireless Data Transfer and Charging
Advanced wireless technology allows one benchtop station to collect data from multiple subjects simultaneously. Included wireless implant chargers allow implants to record in subjects for extended periods.
| Communication Module Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Communications Capacity | Up to 100 implants |
| Communication Range | Up to 5 meters (~16 feet) |
| Connector | USB Mini, Type B |
| Antenna | 2, External |
| Size | 6.0 x 3.5 x 1.0 inches |
| Weight | 0.4 pounds |
| Under the Cage Wireless Charger Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Charging Capability | One Unit will Recharge All Devices withing a Standard Mouse Cage |
| Charging Distance | Up to 5cm from Charger Surface |
| Charging Frequency | 13.56MHz ISM Band |
| Power Source | Standard USB Wall Charger, Input: Universal AC, Output: DC 5V 0.5A USB |
| Dimensions | 250mm x 170mm x 20mm |
| Weight | 0.4 Kg |
Wireless Implants
These small biocompatible devices are surgically implanted subcutaneously or within the subject’s peritoneal cavity, with ECG leads sutured to the pectoral muscles, one on each side of the chest. Once implanted, the devices can be wirelessly set to automatically collect ECG, heart rate, core temperature, and activity data at defined time periods and intervals.
| Wireless Implants – General Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Model | C19BTA |
| Volume | 1.9 cc |
| Weight | 2.7 grams |
| Body Shape | Rectangular Solid |
| Size | 7.0 x 12.5 x 23.0 mm |
| Subject Weight | Subcutaneous: >20g Interperitoneal: >25g |
| Measurement Specifications – Biopotential (ECG) & Heart Rate | |
|---|---|
| Sampling Frequency | 1024Hz or 512Hz |
| Input Voltage Range | ±5mV |
| Electrode Type | Flexible, trimmable & repairable |
| Electrode Lead Length | 20 cm, customizable |
| Heart Rate Reporting Frequency | 1Hz when ECG active |
| Measurement Specifications – Activity | |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Onboard Accelerometer |
| Sampling Frequency | 6 Hz |
| Max Reporting Frequency | 1 sample/5 seconds (1x/5 sec) |
| Reporting Frequency Options | 1x/5 sec, 1x/15 sec, 1x/30 sec, 1x/1 min, 1x/5 min, 1x/15 min |
| Measurement Specifications – Temperature | |
|---|---|
| Max Sampling Frequency | 1 sample/0.5 seconds |
| Sampling Frequency | 1x/0.5 sec, 1x/1 sec, 1x/5 sec, 1x/15 sec, 1x/30 sec, 1x/1 min, 1x/5 min, 1x/15 min |
| Range | 0-50°C |
| Accuracy | 0.1°C (Initial Calibration) |
| Resolution | 0.1°C |
| Measurement Specifications – Battery & Memory | |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Battery Life Off Charger | 5 Days |
| Battery Charge Time | 7 Days |
| Onboard Data Capacity | 1GB |
| Useful Device Life | > 1 Year |
Features that help you do better science…
Rechargeable Batteries
scientists can collect longitudinal data for longer duration and reuse implants in new subjects
Automatic Recording
once configured, implants start and stop recording data automatically, eliminating stress from unnecessary handling
Social Housing
unique implant IDs permit multiple animals per cage, improving surgical recovery and optimizing throughput
Onboard Memory
no gaps in data: record during behavioral tests and transfer the data once the subject is back in its cage
Data Acquisition Software
The Indus Rodent Implantable Monitor software connects to the wireless transfer module and provides a station to view and configure implants, monitor a subject’s current vital signs, and review recorded data.
Acquisition & Analysis Functions:
Implants can be set to record data for specific durations and intervals. Collected data can then be reviewed on the Rodent Implantable Monitor laptop workstation. Data can be exported into standard formats, such as .CSV, permitting further analysis and data management through various software programs.
The Three Rs of Animal Research
The 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), introduced in 1959 by William Russell and Rex Burch and discussed more frequently in the past 15 years, serve as guidelines when designing experiments involving animals. The Doppler Flow Velocity System embraces these concepts in its design and everyday use.
By collecting data serially, researchers are able to both gather more data and gain extra control over variability – Reducing the number of animals potentially required used per study.
Refining catheter-based or other invasive measurements by using noninvasive handheld probes decreases unnecessary pain.
Further, the small diameter of these probes allow measurements that would be difficult or impossible with systems with larger footprints.
Learn more about the 3Rs at the following locations:
The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique [W.M.S. Russell and R.L. Burch]
Replacement, Reduction and Refinement [Paul Flecknell]
UK’s National Centre for the Replacement Refinement & Reduction of Animals in Research