Recommendations for Blood Pressure Measurement in Humans and Experimental Animals

Abstract

Abstract-In experimental animals, as in humans, techniques for measuring blood pressure (BP) have improved considerably over the past decade. In this document, we present recommendations for measuring BP in experimental animals with the goal of helping investigators select optimal methods for BP monitoring in the research laboratory. The advantages and disadvantages of various BP measurement methods are discussed and specific recommendations are provided for selecting the optimal technique depending on the study objective. Although indirect techniques that permit only sporadic measurements of BP may be suitable for some purposes, methods for directly measuring BP are generally preferred because of their ability to monitor the highly dynamic nature of BP in a comprehensive fashion. Selection of the methods to be used should ultimately be guided by the study objectives to insure that the techniques chosen are appropriate for the experimental questions being explored.

Tail‐Cuff Technique and Its Influence on Central Blood Pressure in the Mouse

“…We do not believe this has been adequately reported previously. The data generated in this quantitative study support the American Heart Association recommendations for blood pressure measurements in mice,5 ie, that the tail‐cuff technique can detect changes in blood pressure, similar to those observed in the AngII‐induced hypertension model here. They recommend that it be used for screening of large numbers of animals and long‐term studies where the use of the more accurate telemetry techniques has limitations, as discussed above.…”

“…Although telemetry is a direct measurement of central blood pressure (from the aortic arch as in our case) and is considered the “gold standard” technique,5 it requires the mice to undergo major surgery for the implantation of the telemetry probes and subsequent recovery. The probe implantation involves permanent ligation of an artery, most commonly the left carotid in mice, which is a significant perturbation to the circulation 6.…”

“…Although telemetry systems compatible with group housing are becoming available for mice, a relatively high cost and requirement for major surgery remain important limiting factors. The tail‐cuff technique does not have these limitations and is widely considered to be acceptable and recommended for certain applications such as phenotypic screening and studies that involve large numbers of mice 5, 10. Despite being associated with stress, some consider the tail‐cuff technique to be more acceptable for the 3Rs’ term of “refinement” because it is performed without the need for anesthesia or surgery.…”

“…The technologies for both telemetry and tail‐cuff blood pressure monitoring have evolved since these were first described for use in rats 5, 16, 17, 18. The need to handle, restrain, and warm the animals has remained a necessity for the tail‐cuff technique.…”

Does Tail‐Cuff Plethysmography Provide a Reliable Estimate of Central Blood Pressure in Mice?

“…Radiotelemetric recording is widely recognized as the best method for establishing a blood pressure phenotype, or evaluating interventions that affect blood pressure, in mice 1. However, the necessary hardware and software is costly, and successful surgical implantation of the transmitters requires some skill.…”