Autonomic control of blood pressure in mice: basic physiology and effects of genetic modification

Abstract

Control of blood pressure and of blood flow is essential for maintenance of homeostasis. The hemodynamic state is adjusted by intrinsic, neural, and hormonal mechanisms to optimize adaptation to internal and environmental challenges. In the last decade, many studies showed that modification of the mouse genome may alter the capacity of cardiovascular control systems to respond to homeostatic challenges or even bring about a permanent pathophysiological state. This review discusses the progress that has been made in understanding of autonomic cardiovascular control mechanisms from studies in genetically modified mice. First, from a physiological perspective, we describe how basic hemodynamic function can be measured in conscious conditions in mice. Second, we focus on the integrative role of autonomic nerves in control of blood pressure in the mouse, and finally, we depict the opportunities and insights provided by genetic modification in this area.

Magnetic resonance imaging of regional cardiac function in the mouse

“…The comparison of the above values is indicative of the compromised cardiac function induced by the focal infarction and corresponds to data measured in conscious mice using direct flow measurements at the ascending aorta [44].…”

Mouse gene targeting in cardiovascular physiology

“…Many aspects of the murine cardiovascular system-anatomic and physiological-are identical to larger mammals. Nearly all values of cardiovascular parameters obtained in mice are well within the range predicted by allometric scaling equations from rats and humans (15). The baroreceptor reflex (22) and the regulation of fluid and electrolyte homeostasis by the renin-angiotensin system (8), two of the major blood pressure regulating systems (30,32), seem to function in a very similar fashion as in larger mammals.…”

Aromatase-Deficient (ArKO) Mice Have Reduced Blood Pressure and Baroreflex Sensitivity

“…The average value of the transfer gain in the frequency band between 0.3 and 0.5 Hz was used as the estimate of the baroreflex sensitivity ( Fig. 1) (20). Other frequency bands included in the analysis were low frequency (0.08 -0.3 Hz) and high frequency (0.5-1 Hz), and the total power was calculated between 0 and 1 Hz (20).…”

“…1) (20). Other frequency bands included in the analysis were low frequency (0.08 -0.3 Hz) and high frequency (0.5-1 Hz), and the total power was calculated between 0 and 1 Hz (20). For further details, see supplemental methods.…”