Systems Physiology & Multi-omics Core services include the following resources for mouse systems physiology:
- Mouse activity recordings
- Mouse body composition
- Automated, computer-controlled feeding hoppers
- Mouse cages for metabolic analysis
- Non‐invasive analysis of mouse sleep parameters
- Mouse cages for sleep deprivation analysis
- Statistical support for circadian data analysis
- Support for the sample preparation, experimental design and guidance for analysis of multi‐omics data
Mouse activity recordings
We have capacity to analyze activity patterns and circadian behavioral outputs in 130 cages equipped with wheels or 62 cages with infrared motion detectors. Our facility includes 5 large light-controlled boxes (Actimetrics) housing up to 75 single-housed mice, plus an additional 4 light-controlled boxes for up to 48 more mice, accommodating a total of 123 mice.
Mouse body composition
The Echo MRI unit housed in ACS is available to perform body composition analysis on mice or rats. Outcomes include whole body fat mass, lean mass, free water, and total water masses in live rodents.
Automated, computer-controlled feeding hoppers
We have 28 food hoppers (Actimetrics) to monitor and control the timing of feeding. Each hopper unit supports feeding control for two mouse cages, allowing our 28 hoppers to service 56 cages simultaneously. Additionally, we have 3 light-controlled boxes dedicated to feeding studies.
Mouse cages for metabolic analysis
We currently have 16 Phenomaster metabolic cages (TSE Systems), which provide cutting-edge technology to measure indirect calorimetry in mice. These cages allow us to assess energy expenditure, metabolic rate, oxygen consumption, CO2 production, and respiratory exchange ratios, providing crucial data on metabolic changes associated with aging in rodent models. The cages are housed in chambers that control temperature, lighting, and humidity. We can also monitor and control food intake and water consumption.
Non‐invasive analysis of mouse sleep parameters
The PiezoSleep System (Signal Solutions) utilizes piezoelectric sensor technology and consists of a plexiglass cage with a piezoelectric film sensor placed on the cage floor. This sensor detects subtle pressure variations, such as breathing and body movement, enabling non-invasive, home-cage monitoring of sleep, wakefulness, locomotor activity, and breathing. Currently, we have a capacity of 16 sleep cages housed in 2 light-controlled boxes.
Mouse cages for sleep deprivation analysis
We have 6 sleep fragmentation chambers (Lafayette Instruments) designed for sleep deprivation and sleep fragmentation studies in rodents. Each chamber is equipped with a controlled sweep bar that prevents the mice from sleeping. The continuous sweep setting operates every 7.5 seconds. The chambers resemble standard housing cages and include ad-libitum access to food and water to support long-term experiments.
Statistical support for circadian data analysis
We provide comprehensive statistical support for analyzing circadian data from both humans and rodents. Our services include a range of time series methods designed to analyze and interpret biological rhythms effectively. In collaboration with Dr. Huo, we offer solutions for analyzing human data from actigraphy, core body temperature, and data from wearable devices, such as activity patterns, heart rate, sleep/wake patterns, etc. We analyze activity data from rodents to study their circadian rhythms and behavior, including locomotor activity, wheel running, and sleep parameters. We also offer statistical support for analyzing circadian rhythm-related gene expression to explore genetic influences on circadian patterns.
Support for the sample preparation, experimental design and guidance for analysis of multi‐omics data
Our Core offers comprehensive support for researchers throughout the entire process of multi-omics studies, from sample preparation to experimental design and data analysis. Our goal is to provide the necessary expertise and resources to ensure that your multi-omics research is conducted efficiently and effectively. We provide expert advice on optimal methods for sample collection, handling, and storage to maintain the integrity and quality of your multi-omics samples. We also offer consultation to design experiments that align with your research objectives, including advice on selecting appropriate omics technologies (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc.) and experimental conditions.