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Cell Biology JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique

DOI: 10.3791/50172-v
What you'll learn
  • ✓ Perform forced oscillation technique measurements on anesthetized mice using flexiVent system
  • ✓ Execute tracheotomy, cannulation, and mechanical ventilation setup for respiratory testing
  • ✓ Assess airway responsiveness to methacholine challenge and interpret lung mechanics data
  • ✓ Analyze respiratory system parameters including resistance, compliance, and elastance
Protocol

The present protocol provides a detailed step-by-step description of the procedures required to execute measurements of respiratory system mechanics as well as the assessment of airway responsiveness to inhaled methacholine in mice using the forced oscillation technique (flexiVent; SCIREQ Inc, Montreal, Qc, Canada).

Difficulty
advanced
Total time
~60–90 min per mouse (including anesthesia, surgery, stabilization, and complete measurements)
Model organism
Mouse (strain unspecified)
Biosafety
BSL-1

Steps

1
Prepare flexiVent FX system and calibrate

Set up the forced oscillation technique apparatus, including system calibration and software configuration. Ensure all pneumatic and electronic components are functional before animal testing.

▶ 01:41
2
Perform tracheotomy and airway cannulation

Under anesthesia, expose the trachea via midline neck incision and insert a cannula to establish a secure airway connection to the flexiVent system.

▶ 03:19
3
Initiate mechanical ventilation and stabilize

Connect the animal to the ventilator, set tidal volume and respiratory rate parameters, and allow adequate time for hemodynamic and respiratory stabilization.

▶ 04:55
4
Measure baseline respiratory system mechanics

Execute forced oscillation measurements to quantify airway resistance, lung compliance, elastance, and tissue damping under baseline conditions.

▶ 06:26
5
Perform methacholine challenge and reassess

Administer inhaled methacholine in incremental doses and repeat respiratory mechanics measurements to evaluate airway hyperresponsiveness.

▶ 10:06
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