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Updated: May 28, 2026
A Murine Model of Muscle Training by Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
Published on: May 9, 2012
Open-Source Tools for Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Mouse Models: A Methodological Validation Study
Bana H Odeh1, Amanda L Wellman1, Michael Ameye1
1Physical Therapy Program, Department of Health Care Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Low-cost, open-source neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) tools, including 3D-printed electrodes and the StimJim stimulator, offer viable alternatives for mouse muscle function studies. These accessible options can replicate key experimental outcomes, supporting continued research despite commercial product discontinuation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Animal Models of Disease
Background:
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is crucial for investigating muscle function in both healthy and dystrophic mouse models.
- The discontinuation of specific commercial NMES electrodes and stimulators poses a challenge for researchers.
- Accessible, open-source alternatives are needed to maintain the continuity of research in muscle physiology and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate low-cost, open-source alternatives to discontinued commercial NMES equipment for mouse studies.
- To compare the performance of custom 3D-printed and pen electrodes against a previously available commercial standard.
- To assess the efficacy of the open-source StimJim stimulator against a discontinued commercial stimulator (Grass S48).
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted: one comparing electrode types and another comparing stimulators.
- In vivo NMES was applied to ankle dorsiflexors in C57BL/6J and dysferlin-null BLAJ mice.
- Twitch and tetanic torque were measured and analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA.
Main Results:
- Electrode comparison showed significant differences in twitch torque (p=0.031) but not tetanic torque (p=0.060) between types.
- The StimJim stimulator produced lower twitch torque (p<0.001) compared to the Grass S48, but similar tetanic torque (p=0.055).
- Open-source tools demonstrated comparable maximal tetanic torque, validating their utility for certain NMES applications.
Conclusions:
- Open-source NMES electrodes and stimulators provide viable, cost-effective alternatives for mouse muscle function research.
- While maximal tetanic force is comparable, researchers should consider potential differences in twitch torque and stimulation parameters.
- These findings validate accessible tools, supporting ongoing research in neuromuscular physiology and disease modeling.
