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Simultaneous determination of ventricular function and systemic hemodynamics in the conscious rat
A K Salyers1, L F Rozek, S E Bittner
1Dept. Biological Research, G. D. Searle and Co., Skokie, IL 60077.
Journal of Pharmacological Methods
|May 1, 1988
Summary
This study presents a new method for assessing cardiovascular drug effects in conscious rats, measuring ventricular performance and hemodynamics simultaneously. The model is stable and responsive, proving useful for pharmacological research.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Assessing cardiovascular drug efficacy requires reliable methods to measure both cardiac function and systemic hemodynamics.
- Existing models may not accurately reflect conscious physiological states or allow for simultaneous measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and validate a novel method for simultaneous evaluation of cardiovascular agents' effects on ventricular performance and systemic hemodynamics.
- To establish a stable and responsive animal model for pharmacological interventions in conscious rats.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a combination of Millar transducer for left ventricular pressure (LVEDP, mmHg) and LV dp/dt (mmHg/sec) and Columbus thermistor for cardiac output (CO, ml/min) measurement.
- Measured mean arterial pressure (MAP, mmHg) via femoral artery catheter in conscious, spontaneously hypertensive rats.
- Ensured steady-state physiological parameters within 3 hours post-anesthesia cessation.
Main Results:
- Isoproterenol (beta-adrenergic agonist) increased LV max dP/dt, heart rate (HR), and CO, while decreasing arterial blood pressure and peripheral resistance.
- Propranolol administration resulted in decreased HR, LV dP/dt, and CO.
- The developed model demonstrated stability over time and responsiveness to standard inotropic agents.
Conclusions:
- The combined use of Millar transducer and Columbus thermistor provides a suitable method for assessing acute pharmacological interventions on cardiovascular function.
- This model is effective for evaluating drug effects on ventricular performance and systemic hemodynamics in conscious rats.