SOLUTIONS FOR MUSCLE TISSUE ASSAYS

Lying between single cell and whole heart experimental studies, intact muscle tissue isolated from hearts offers unique advantages. Unlike single isolated myocytes, which represent the smallest fully functional model system, intact muscle can be used to study cardiac function while preserving the native myocardial tissue’s multicellular environment, including both fibroblasts and myocytes.  And unlike whole heart studies, the contractile characteristics of muscle tissue can be evaluated independently of extrinsic factors such as vascular tone and are better suited for acquisition of functional parameters like calcium transients. Muscle tissue preparations also allow measurements too difficult or impossible to perform in whole hearts. Similarly, unlike skinned preparations, intact muscle preparations allow for simultaneous detection of force production and intracellular calcium dynamics.

We offer two variations of the same core system featuring quantitative force and fluorescence measurements, as well as real-time force-length work loop data acquisition. Our Intact Muscle System permits electrical excitation directly through the platinum hooks attached to the muscle preparation, while the Cardiac Slice System offers electrical field stimulation and many of the key tools required for successful slice preparation.

IonOptix offers turn-key solutions for studying isolated muscle tissue…

CARDIAC SLICE SYSTEM

The IonOptix Cardiac Slice System enables measurements of calcium, force, and mechanical work in thin slice preparations of myocardium. The preparation is adhered to stable PET clips, then mounted between a robust force transducer and programmable length controller in a perfusion chamber, allowing for continuous temperature control and oxygenation of the tissue. The chamber also includes fixed, inert platinum electrodes providing electrical field stimulation while minimizing electrolysis. LEARN MORE

IonOptix Intact Muscle Chamber System

INTACT MUSCLE SYSTEM

The IonOptix Intact Muscle Chamber facilitates simultaneous measurement of quantitative fluorescence and force development. Intact ventricular papillary muscle or other excitable muscle tissue is attached between a robust force transducer and programmable length controller. The chamber is designed to be used for excitable muscles up to 2 cm in length. Chamber fluid flow allows for temperature control and continuous oxygenation of tissue, while the specialized force transducer also permits electrical excitation directly through the platinum hooks attached to the muscle preparation, ensuring no electrolysis or disruption of biology. LEARN MORE

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