Neuro Models Equipment
The following is a list of major equipment items used as part of NMF services.
Gas anesthesia systems (Isoflurane, N2O, O2; VetEquip)
The NMF uses gas anesthesia due to its ease of control of anesthetic state and prefers the physiological benefits of an N2O/O2 mix for surgical events.
Trinocular microscopes with video monitoring (Nikon)
High clarity magnification, ergonomic adjustable headpiece, and independent eyepiece focus to accommodate user needs, and digital video for training and observation.
Stereotaxic frames (digital position, multi-arm, rat/mouse accessories; David Kopf Instruments)
Assorted products for precision alignment and control.
Heating systems for surgery and post-op recovery (Kent Scientific)
Intra-operative heating pad and enclosed warm-air recovery chamber for improving procedural outcomes.
Laser-Doppler blood flow monitor w/ needle probe (Moor Instruments)
For assessing focal flow in cortical surface vasculature to improve consistency of the MCA occlusion procedure.
TBI impactor (Leica)
Controlled cortical impact (CCI) device to facilitate accurate targeting and precision force application. Usable for both open skull or closed head TBI models.
Fiber-optic Laser system (Coherent)
Sapphire laser at 561 nm for use in photothrombotic stroke procedure.
Microsyringe injection system (World Precision Instruments)
For precision control of injectable agents via Hamilton syringes. Mounts to stereotax.
Compound microscope (Accu-Scope)
Binocular scope with eyepiece reticle for viewing slides and sizing glass pipettes for injection procedures.
Glass micropipette puller and beveler (Sutter Instruments)
For fabricating thin, tapered glass pipettes with smooth, sharpened tips for injection procedures.
Biosafety hood (NuAire)
For safely working with biological materials (e.g., AAV for injections) and performing sample collections.
Peristaltic pump (Ismatec)
To facilitate tissue perfusion procedures.
Telemetry e-phys recording system with video acquisition (Data Sciences International)
Awake recording of EEG and EMG signals (via implanted RF sensor) with time-matched video to facilitate in-vivo assessment of seizure-like events. It can be used for endogenous phenotyping and pharmacologically induced events.
Tethered e-phys recording system with video acquisition (Tucker-Davis Technologies)
Awake recording of EEG and EMG signals (via tethered headstage interface) with time-matched video to facilitate in-vivo assessment of seizure-like events. It can be used for endogenous phenotyping, pharmacologically induced events, or audiogenic events.
Rotorod apparatus (IITC Life Science)
Test of general sensorimotor coordination ability during walking behavior.
Grip strength testing apparatus (San Diego Instruments)
Test to measure peak isometric force during forepaw and hindpaw grasping behavior.
Ladder walking apparatus (custom)
Test of fine coordination and placement accuracy for each limb during voluntary walking behavior.
Cylinder test apparatus (custom)
Test to evaluate asymmetry of paw use during natural vertical exploratory behavior.
Pole test apparatus (custom, mouse only)
Test to measure motor ability related to climbing down a vertical pole.
Corner test apparatus (custom, mouse only)
Test to detect unilateral deficits in brain injury models via vibrissa sensation during walking.
Forelimb reach-and-retrieve task (custom)
Test to assess skilled reaching and grasping behaviors during food pellet retrievals.