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A low-cost metabolic apparatus for student labs: measuring oxygen consumption and ventilation in conscious mice
Yan Liu1, Jia Lin2, Wenzhen Yu1
1Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China.
Abstract:
Hands-on experience in measuring core physiological parameters like oxygen consumption (V̇o2) is essential for deep conceptual understanding, yet the prohibitive cost of commercial systems often excludes such experiments from science curricula. To bridge this gap, we developed and implemented a ready-to-use educational module centered on a simple, low-cost metabolic apparatus. The apparatus, constructed from commercially available components, enables direct measurement of V̇o2 and respiratory parameters in conscious mice by students. Moreover, the apparatus was successfully used to detect and quantify the opposing physiological effects of two classic metabolic-modulating drugs: levothyroxine sodium (increasing V̇o2 and minute ventilation) and chlorpromazine hydrochloride (decreasing V̇o2, respiratory frequency, and ventilation). This module transforms abstract principles of energy metabolism, respiratory control, and pharmacology into an investigable, inquiry-based learning experience. The apparatus features straightforward assembly and operation and is accompanied by a comprehensive instructional manual. These attributes render it particularly well suited for integration into undergraduate and graduate physiology and pharmacology laboratories, thereby broadening access to advanced physiological measurement techniques.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We developed a simple, low-cost apparatus for measuring oxygen consumption and respiratory function in conscious mice, using readily available components. This device enables students to directly observe and quantify the effects of classic metabolic-modulating drugs (levothyroxine and chlorpromazine) on energy metabolism and breathing. The apparatus provides a practical, hands-on tool for teaching core concepts in physiology and pharmacology, making sophisticated metabolic measurements accessible to undergraduate and graduate education laboratories where commercial systems are often cost prohibitive.
