use in transgenic mice

The publication of the entire mouse genome opened up a world of possibilities for the small animal researcher. The transgenic mouse is a perfect model for duplicating and reproducing genetic cardiac abnormalities that are similar to those occurring in humans, such as cardiomyopathy and heart failure. With these endeavors, researchers are able to manipulate the genetic codes of the mouse in an effort to possibly alter the genes that cause heart abnormalities. Theoretically, researchers then can make correlations between human and mouse genetic code in the continuous effort to battle heart disease.

Electrophysiology studies are a proven method for characterizing the electrical phenotype of transgenic mice, as well as for determining and diagnosing various detrimental heart conditions.

EP introduction sites

The size of the EPR-800 catheter allows it to be introduced invasively or minimally invasively to various sites of the animal, including:

• jugular vein for placement inside the right atrium and right ventricle
• esophagus for placement next to the heart
• carotid artery for placement inside the left ventricle

The EPR-800 catheter can be used for invasive intracardiac electrophysiology studies in mice as young as five days old, and in even younger mice following minimally invasive transesophageal electrophysiology studies.

EPR-800 applications

Standard electrophysiology studies are performed with the EPR-800 catheter by applying pacing and recording protocols from inside the heart or through the esophagus to determine electrical properties of the atrium and the ventricle. Programmed electrical stimulation is also applied through the catheter for induction of abnormal heartbeats.