FlexiVent – Used in Recent Pulmonary Fibrosis Research
FlexiVent – Used in Recent Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Pulmonary fibrosis describes a condition in which the normal lung anatomy is replaced by a process of active remodeling, deposition of extracellular matrix and dramatic changes in the phenotype of both fibroblasts and alveolar epithelial cells. This condition can be idiopathic, as in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), […]
Function Follows Form and Form Follows Function
Function follows form and form follows function The flexiVent makes assessing mechanical properties of the lung a relatively simple undertaking. However, understanding the underlying physiological processes and mathematical modelling can be daunting. A background in pulmonary structure, function, and of the forces at play within the system are key to making the most of the provided outcomes. […]
To Open or Close the Lungs – That Is the Question!
To Open or Close the Lungs – That Is the Question! Although often necessary, mechanical ventilation of small animals during pulmonary measurements can lead to both acute and chronic damage to their lungs, also known as ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). The injury happens as a result of the frequent opening and closing of alveolar air […]
Longitudinal Studies With The flexiVent to Acquire Lung Mechanics
Longitudinal Studies With the flexiVent to Acquire Lung Mechanics When developing an appropriate protocol to assess respiratory mechanics, there is a trade-off between accuracy of the measurements and the invasiveness of the technique. The flexiVent favours an invasive technique, producing results that are unparalleled in accuracy. However, when performing longitudinal studies, there is some tendency to lean […]
Empower Yourself
Empower Yourself Attending a training such as the Phenotyping Mice Models of Human Lung Disease organized by the Jackson Laboratory is a great way to advance skillsets or simply get started in the field of respiratory research. It represents a wonderful opportunity for researchers of all stages to learn and network in a structured yet informal environment. […]
Pulmonary Hypertension Animal Models
Pulmonary Hypertension Animal Models A lack of validated pulmonary hypertension animal models is the reason why there aren’t enough studies exploring the pathophysiology and therapies for Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). What is pulmonary hypertension? Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition where blood pressure is increased in the arteries of the lungs and is typically associated with […]
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Deficiency
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Deficiency Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is an inherited disorder, most prevalent in populations of European ancestry, and is underdiagnosed. It results from mutations in the SERPINA1 gene, leading to either a reduced level or function of the AAT protein. AAT deficiency results a variety of health issues, particularly predisposition to the development of liver […]
Circadian Rhythm Effects Lung Function
Circadian Rhythm Effects Lung Function Circadian rhythm changes can affect lung function, introducing susceptibility to infection and other adverse effects on health and disease. What does the circadian rhythm do? The circadian rhythm regulates many physiological parameters including lung function, immune responses, and cardiopulmonary function. The master circadian pacemaker is located in the anterior […]
Obese Mice Study Proves to Use the Ideal Weight
Obese Mice Study Proves to Use the Ideal Weight When working with obese mice, what weight to use when performing flexiVent measurements? This question is quite an important one for two reasons. First, there is a substantial difference in weight between the obese subjects vs. the lean control group. For instance, obese mice can weigh […]
Oxygen Saturation (SPO2) Monitoring During Pulmonary Studies
Oxygen Saturation (SPO2) Monitoring During Pulmonary Studies Oxygen saturation is the fraction of oxygen-saturated hemoglobin relative to total hemoglobin (unsaturated + saturated) in the blood. A very precise and specific balance of oxygen in the blood is necessary to keep the body functioning properly. Monitoring these changes provides complimentary outcomes and a means to quantify […]