Transthoracic Echocardiographic Examination in the Rabbit Model

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Preclinical Animal Models

Background:

• Large animal models are essential for translational research due to physiological similarities with humans.
• Rabbits offer a cost-effective alternative to other large animal models, with comparable cardiac electrophysiology.
• Echocardiography is a vital non-invasive tool for longitudinal cardiac function assessment in preclinical studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a standardized, step-by-step echocardiography protocol for the rabbit model.
• To guide researchers in obtaining optimal echocardiographic views and utilizing various imaging modes.
• To facilitate reliable preclinical assessment of novel therapies for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Main Methods:

• Development of a detailed echocardiography protocol under veterinary cardiology supervision.
• Demonstration of standardized examination procedures for acquiring specific echocardiographic views.
• Guidance on utilizing different imaging modes available in clinical echocardiography systems.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive protocol for performing echocardiography in rabbits was established.
• Clear instructions were provided for obtaining standard echocardiographic views and planes.
• The protocol ensures consistent and reproducible cardiac function assessment in rabbits.

Conclusions:

• The described echocardiography protocol enables standardized cardiac function evaluation in rabbit models.
• This methodology supports the preclinical assessment of therapeutic interventions, such as cardiac regeneration.
• The rabbit model, with this standardized protocol, is a valuable tool for translational cardiovascular research.