CHALLENGE: How can the perfusion rate, and hence amount of product delivered, take into account actual arterial flow from the animal?

SOLUTIONS: As the starting point, we selected a standard perfusion pump from the many models available on the market. We chose a well-established model that offered the possibility of external control by software. We then developed a new  iox2 module to control the pump. During experiments, the module would automatically adjust the perfusion rate in proportion to the average flow as determined by a flowmeter measuring the subject's arterial flow.

RESULTS: The module is now available as an option for iox2 software. The perfusion flow may be set as a percentage of the arterial flow (up to a maximum value). Up to 8 pumps can be controlled simultaneously.