DERC Mouse Phenotyping | The Histopathology Laboratory | Body Composition |
Multiplex Protein Assays (MPAs) | Whole Body Metabolic Assessment

Whole Body Metabolic Assessment

In the study of diabetes related phenotypes, measurement of whole body metabolism is often necessary. These studies can be carried out through the mouse phenotyping core with metabolic chambers (TSE Systems Inc). The DERC metabolic chambers measure not only the mouse’s energy expenditure via indirect calorimetry but also food intake, three axis movement and water intake. These data allow investigators also to calculate respiratory quotient. Additionally, the system includes two treadmills housed within metabolic chambers, enabling measurement of animals’ energy expenditure during exercise. The treadmills feature a completely enclosed design.

Location, Equipment and Staff:

The Mouse Phenotyping Core measures metabolic activity using a CaloSys Calorimetry System, by TSE Systems Inc, located in Bad Homburg, Germany. It is operated by Natan Obstfeld. Measuring energy expenditure during exercise requires training. The calorimetry system is located in room 704 of the Russ Berrie Barrier Facility.

Procedure for using the Whole Body Metabolic Assessment System:

Scheduling is done through Natan Obstfeld (no2167@columbia.edu; 212-851-5302). Once an experiment has been scheduled the mice must be transferred into RBP room 704. All transfers MUST be arranged through the Institute for Comparative Medicine staff. There will be no exceptions. The mice also must be transferred to the DERC protocol; Natan will provide you with the necessary information. Mice should be transferred by the Wednesday prior to the time of your scheduled experiment. Once mice have been transferred they are then placed in the system on Monday. Experiments run for 2-5 days. Typically, the first 1-2 days are used as an acclimation period. Younger mice tend to require less acclimatization time. Once the experiment is completed the mice are removed from the chambers. No mice are allowed back into any barrier facility once brought into RB704, and therefore, unless otherwise instructed, the mice are marked for sacrifice when removed from the system.

Quality Control:

Every three months, an ob/ob mouse without food and wt mouse with food are placed in the system to measure the accuracy of the RER. The system, including the gas and feeding sensors, is recalibrated every three months, and as needed. Additionally, a quality assessment query is sent to all users of the system.