Dorsal skinfold chamber models in mice

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Microcirculation Research
• Animal Models in Pathophysiology

Background:

• Dorsal skinfold chamber models have been crucial for understanding micro-vascularization in pathophysiology for decades.
• These models enable continuous in vivo studies of vascularization, essential for research on transplants, wound healing, and biomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a smaller dorsal skinfold chamber to minimize animal discomfort.
• To compare the novel Leipzig Dorsal Skinfold Chamber with existing models.
• To review and analyze commercially available dorsal skinfold chamber models.

Main Methods:

• Applied the Leipzig Dorsal Skinfold Chamber to 66 C57Bl/6 mice.
• Evaluated angiogenesis and mean vessel density over 21 days using microscopy and fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran.
• Conducted a literature and patent search (2006-2015) to identify and compare dorsal skinfold chamber models.

Main Results:

• The Leipzig Dorsal Skinfold Chamber reduces animal irritation while maintaining the capabilities of larger models.
• Five distinct dorsal skinfold chamber models were identified with significant regional variations.
• The new titanium chamber is smaller and lighter than previous German models but not as advantageous as some Asian and US models.

Conclusions:

• Smaller, lighter dorsal skinfold chambers are beneficial for research in smaller animals and reduce animal distress.
• Increased research exchange is recommended to promote the adoption of smaller and lighter chamber designs.