A Closed-chest Model to Induce Transverse Aortic Constriction in Mice

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Surgical Innovation
• Animal Models

Background:

• Transverse aortic constriction (TAC) is a common method for inducing cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure in mouse models.
• Traditional open-chest TAC procedures involve partial thoracotomy, causing significant surgical trauma and altering respiratory physiology.
• This trauma can confound research findings by impacting breathing patterns and immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a minimally invasive, closed-chest surgical approach for TAC in mice.
• To reduce surgical trauma and its physiological consequences compared to the standard open-chest method.
• To maintain high survival rates while improving animal recovery and preserving respiratory function.

Main Methods:

• Developed a closed-chest approach via lateral thoracotomy, accessing the transverse aortic arch through the 2nd intercostal space.
• Avoided entering the chest cavity, minimizing disruption to ribs and respiratory structures.
• Performed the procedure using standard laboratory equipment for TAC, ensuring comparability with existing methods.

Main Results:

• The minimally invasive technique achieved survival rates comparable to the standard open-chest TAC procedure.
• Mice undergoing the closed-chest approach exhibited preserved physiological breathing patterns.
• Animals showed evidence of more rapid recovery and reduced immune response post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• A minimally invasive, closed-chest lateral thoracotomy is a viable alternative for inducing TAC in mouse models.
• This approach significantly reduces surgical trauma, leading to improved recovery and maintained respiratory function.
• The technique offers a more physiologically relevant model for studying cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.