There are numerous rodents and small animals used in research models, as they enable researchers to elucidate the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, and develop novel therapeutics. We offer laboratory solutions for anesthesia and surgical monitoring essentials, as well as more advanced tools such as telemetry, Doppler Flow Velocity systems, tissue oxygen and perfusion measurement systems, several blood pressure monitoring options, and a fluorescence endomicroscope to study a wide variety of disease models.
Telemetry
Chronic monitoring of physiological parameters is made possible with telemetry. The Indus Instruments mouse telemetry system enables ECG, temperature and activity recording, while the Kaha Sciences telemetry system enables biopotential, pressure, oxygen and sympathetic nerve activity recording. Using telemetry enables long-term studies and reduces stress artifacts in data as animals do not require constant handling.
High Frequency Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive way to visualize a number of anatomical structures and disease processes in many small animals including, cardiovascular research, cancer biology, abdominal/anatomical targets, developmental biology, and opthamology. Image guided needle injection, 3D imaging, sonoporation, and shear wave elastography are all possible using this system.
Cardiac function
There are multiple methods for assessing cardiovascular function in rodent and small animal models of disease. We offer a variety of solutions for in vivo and in vitro measurement, as well as options for chronic measurement in a variety of models. These systems are suitable for assessing a wide range of parameters including blood flow velocity, isolated heart function, ECG, blood pressure and more.
MR Imaging
MRI is the gold standard in soft tissue imaging. The M-seriesTM compact MRI system provides anatomical and morphological images to pre-clinical researcher focused on a variety of disease models including cancer, neurology, cardiovascular, inflammation, obesity & diabetes, as well as specific organ diseases and developmental biology.
ECG
We offer acute and chronic ECG measurement solutions for use with rodents and other small animals. For acute recordings, the Rodent Surgical Monitor⁺ (RSM⁺) enables ECG measurement streamed to a display tablet. For studies that require chronic ECG measurement, Kaha Sciences and Indus Instruments telemetry enable recordings in conscious animals and can be integrated with a data acquisition system.
Pressure
It is possible to measure rodent and small animal blood pressure acutely or chronically. Pressure catheters integrated with the RSM⁺ enable acute vascular or ventricular pressure measurements coupled to physiological parameters including ECG, heart rate, respiration and body temperature. Kaha Sciences telemeters are suited for chronic single or dual pressure measurements.
Surgical monitoring
Surgical monitoring is important for meeting IACUC guidelines and ensuring successful surgical procedures. The RSM⁺ integrates a heating platform with a touchscreen tablet for ECG, heart rate, respiration, and temperature monitoring. Optional pulse oximetry and vascular/ventricular pressure modules increase functionality.
Vascular function
There are multiple techniques to assess vascular function in rodent and small animal models. Non-invasive pulse wave velocity can be quantified with the Doppler Flow Velocity System, whereas the OxyLite and OxyFlo systems are minimally invasive and quantify dissolved oxygen and tissue perfusion. Wire myographs and tissue baths are suitable for ex vivo assessment of vascular reactivity.
In vivo confocal microscopy
The FIVE2 (ViewnVivo) from Optiscan is a miniaturized fluorescence endomicroscope that enables in vivo imaging in many small animal models, such as rabbits. Using patented Point Scanning Technology, the system captures full field of view images of cellular and sub-cellular structures. The system can be used to generate 3D visualizations through continuously variable depth control.
Anesthesia and ventilation
Anesthesia systems are laboratory essentials. UNO BV anesthesia systems are designed especially for low flows, incorporate active waste gas scavenging and have nose cones and induction boxes designed for rodents and small animals. A three-way valve ensures anesthtic gas is flowing only to components in use, preventing unnecessary user exposure.
Hypoxia
Chamber
Ideal for small animal models, the VelO2x system was created to provide controlled and isolated environments. By simulating the conditions experienced within a diseased state, VelO2x allows researchers to better understand the impact that O2 levels have across various conditions.