Single Vessel Chambers - Most can be supplied with Pt stimulation electrodes for electrical neurotransmitter release from the nerve varicosities. Add /S to model number for this option. All of these chambers are ideal for applications requiring confocal microscopy or simultaneous fluorescence and diameter measurements. Microscope and software systems for these simultaneous measurements are available from several companies. We recommend IonOptix Corporation at www.ionoptix.com and info@ionoptix.com .

Universal Features
•	Vessel may be perfused and/or superfused
•	Steady or pulsatile pressures may be applied extravascularly
•	Pressure seal preserved during 3-dimensional cannula adjustment
•	Angled cannula holders for simultaneous diameter and fluorescent (e.g., Ca++) or confocal measurements
•	Chambers function for most all experimental applications
•	Removable cover
		CH/1/AU & CH/1/AU/SH

 

Model CH/1
This is our most versatile chamber for all experiments requiring vessel diameter measurements. It is perfect for simultaneously measuring fluorescence signals (e.g., Ca++ or pH dyes) and diameter. The large bottom coverglass is excellent for use with common inverted, or confocal microscopes allowing a large diameter objective with short working distance to image the vessel. The design incorporates angled cannula holders so that the vessel may be positioned extremely close (or even touch) the coverglass. Straight, non-angled cannula holders are also provided for use in most other experimental setups, such as those described in the LSI Dual Vessel Chambers section. A readily removable clear plastic cover contains gas ports for experiments requiring a vessel environment that is widely different from ambient air (e.g., hypoxia or anesthetic gases).

The unique mechanical design permits fine 3-dimensional movement of the cannulas for vessel alignment, and the swing-out cannula holders make for easy cannula replacement. When the angled cannula holders are used, only about 3 - 5 ml of superfusate volume is sufficient to cover the vessel. Vessel lumen and wall thickness may be measured using the LSI Video Dimension Analyzer and the data correlated with the fluorescent signals.
 

Model CH/1/SH
This chamber contains an electrically heated element that works with a supplied heat controller (Model TC-02) for accurately regulating the bath solution temperature and eliminating the need for bath superfusion.  Thus, in experiments using peptides, or other expensive agents, the amounts required to bathe the vessel may be minimized. Otherwise, the chamber is identical to the Model CH/1.
 

Model CH/1/QT
Designed for rapid freezing of a cannulated and pressurized vessel for biochemical studies, or for quick transfer from a physiological solution into a fixative for morphological studies.

One section of the CH/1/QT contains the experimental chamber where the superfused vessel may be examined for its diameter responses to pharmacological agents, pressure, flow, etc. A glass coverslip allows visualization of the vessel for lumen diameter and wall measurements using the LSI Video Dimension Analyzer. The other section has a well in which a removable tray fits. A lever arm is used to Quickly Transfer, in about 1s, the vessel and its tubing connections from the chamber to the tray.

The CH/1/QT will readily tolerate the low temperature of an acetone-dry ice freezing solution, liquid nitrogen, or various fixing solutions.