Thermostatic animal platform for intravital microscopy of thin tissues

We describe a novel temperature-controlled, all-on-board design platform for intravital microscopy of thin tissues in small laboratory animals. The apparatus uses transparent heaters and miniature controllers to control independently the temperature of the tissue pedestal and animal heating pad, as well as the animal core temperature. The system ensures a uniform temperature for a thin tissue placed on the surface of a transparent window and maintenance of the animal's core temperature without overheating. This platform provides an alternative to warm superfusion solution for in vivo microscopy, under circumstances where a well-controlled temperature is required. All components of the apparatus are commercially available, inexpensive and reliable, thereby simplifying its assembly. The platform is convenient for use with trans- and epi-illumination and does not interfere with movement of the microscope stage.