Multisystem Monitoring in Rabbit Model: A Method to Assess Neuro-Cardiac and Respiratory Parameters to Study the Oral Drug-induced Triggers for Arrhythmia and Seizures
Transkript
Begin with a healthy experimental rabbit placed in a restrainer. Connect the electroencephalogram or EEG electrodes over the rabbit's scalp to record real-time brain activity. Similarly, connect electrocardiogram or ECG electrodes over the rabbit's chest and limbs to record heart functioning.
Next, attach an oximeter over the rabbit's ear and a capnograph mask over its nose and mouth. The oximeter and capnograph help monitor oxygen saturation levels and breathing patterns, respectively.
Now, take an oral syringe containing animal feed supplemented with an arrhythmia-inducing drug. Remove the capnograph mask and inject the feed into the rabbit's mouth. Then, reposition the mask. Allow the drug to circulate into the rabbit's body for an optimum duration.
The drug molecules bind to specialized potassium channels in the heart and restrict the passage of potassium ions. This results in an extended interval between heart contraction and relaxation, leading to cardiac arrhythmia. Subsequently, monitor the vital parameters for neurological and cardiorespiratory functions.
Record a prolonged QT variant for arrhythmia in ECG, coinciding seizure waves in EEG, abnormal oxygen saturation levels in oximeter, and irregular breathing patterns in capnograph.
