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Updated: May 25, 2026
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Ambulatory ECG Recording in Mice
Published on: May 27, 2010
A high bandwidth fully implantable mouse telemetry system for chronic ECG measurement
David M Russell1, Daniel McCormick, Andrew J Taberner
1Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand. drus023@aucklanduni.ac.nz
Summary
We developed a novel wireless system for transmitting high-bandwidth physiological data from freely moving mice. This inductive power transfer (IPT) system enables continuous, high-fidelity electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring without batteries.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Physiological Monitoring
- Wireless Sensor Networks
Background:
- Continuous physiological monitoring in freely moving animals is crucial for understanding complex biological processes.
- Existing telemetry systems often face limitations due to battery life, size, and restricted animal movement.
- High-bandwidth data acquisition is essential for detailed analysis of physiological signals like the electrocardiogram (ECG).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel wireless system for high-bandwidth physiological data transmission from freely moving mice.
- To enable continuous, long-term monitoring of physiological signals using a battery-less, implanted telemeter.
- To demonstrate the system's capability in capturing high-fidelity ECG data for accurate interval measurements.
Main Methods:
- Development of a wireless system utilizing inductive power transfer (IPT) for continuous power delivery to a battery-less transmitter.
- Implementation of an array of overlapping planar coils under the animal cage to ensure consistent power (minimum 20 mW).
- Utilizing a 2.4 GHz wireless link with feedback control for coil selection and power optimization.
- Construction and testing of a device to capture high-fidelity electrocardiogram (ECG) signals sampled at 2 kHz in mice.
Main Results:
- Successful wireless transmission of high-bandwidth physiological data from a freely moving mouse.
- Continuous power supply (minimum 20 mW) achieved across the entire cage using the IPT system.
- High-fidelity ECG signals captured at 2 kHz, allowing accurate measurement of intervals (QT, QRS, PR).
- Demonstrated feasibility of lifetime continuous monitoring with a fully implanted, battery-less telemeter.
Conclusions:
- The novel IPT-based wireless system effectively enables continuous, high-bandwidth physiological monitoring in freely moving mice.
- This technology overcomes battery limitations, offering potential for lifelong physiological data acquisition.
- The system's accuracy in capturing ECG parameters supports its application in preclinical research and long-term physiological studies.
