Introduction

Rats and mice have long been animals of choice for many types of physiological and pathophysiological experiments. New in vivo technologies, including high-frequency ultrasound imaging (so-called "ultrasound biomicroscopy") and telemetry techniques, combined with advances in mouse genetic engineering, have greatly expanded opportunities for studying the molecular mechanisms of diseases in rodent models. However, application of these new technologies requires both delicate equipment and specialized surgical/experimental skills.

A Small Animal Physiology Core (SAPC) Facility has been established at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Using a VisualSonics high-frequency (20-55 MHz) ultrasound system and DSI telemetry system, the professionally-staffed SAPC can help investigators to phenotype rats and genetically engineered mice. While SAPC has a primary focus on cardiorespiratory phenotyping, its techniques can be extended for other research areas, including cancer (e.g. tumor visualization), neuroscience (e.g. microinjection), organ transplantation (e.g. transplanted heart function), and development (e.g. fetal heart function).

The SAPC is directed by Dr. Mordecai P. Blaustein who chairs the Steering Committee that sets policy and provides scientific and financial oversight for the SAPC. Dr. Ling Chen manages the day-to-day SAPC operations and provides guidance and assistance with core activities. The SAPC provides either full services in accord with the investigator's contractor's protocol, or training and assistance for investigators who are, themselves, interested in using the facilities and equipment available in the SAPC.

Printer friendly Email this page