Journal of neuroscience methods
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J. Neurosci. Methods · Sep 2006
Reversible vagal blockade in conscious rats using a targeted delivery device.
Reversible methods of nerve blockade greatly aid neurophysiological and behavioral studies. We have developed an implantable device for the local delivery of anesthetics to the area surrounding the vagal nerve in rats. The device consists of a thick silicone tube for insulating the nerves from the surrounding tissue, and a thin silicone tube for the infusion of anesthetics into the insulating tube. ⋯ Electrical stimulation of the right vagus nerve in conscious rats increased arterial pressure while decreasing heart rate. The local blockade of afferent fibers abolished the arterial pressure response but preserved the bradycardic response to vagal nerve stimulation. The targeted delivery device was useful for reversible vagal blockade in conscious rats.