The Importance of using Awake Mice for IOI

The quest to understand the intricate workings of the brain under various physiological conditions has led to significant advancements in neuroimaging techniques. Amidst this pursuit, the study conducted by Bakker et al. (2023) sheds light on the alterations in functional connectivity during acute hypoxia using the LightTrack OiS200 Imaging system. Their meticulous investigation, and habituation of mice to non-anesthetized conditions allowed the scientists to avoid anesthesia based alterations to hemodynamics and resting state calcium signals thus offering invaluable insights into brain function under oxygen-deprived conditions.

Advantages of Non-Anesthetized Mouse Models:

One notable aspect of Bakker et al.’s study is the utilization of non-anesthetized mice for imaging purposes. The decision to forgo anesthesia in this context merits attention. Anesthesia, though essential in many experimental setups, can introduce confounding variables that may compromise the integrity of neuroimaging data. Moreover, imaging of non-anesthetized mice aids in the acquisition of intrinsic optical signals. By opting for non-anesthetized models, Bakker et al. navigated this challenge adeptly, thereby enhancing the quality and reliability of their findings and quality of their IOI data.

The decision to image mice without anesthesia underscores a commitment to fidelity in neuroimaging. Anesthetics, while necessary for immobilization and procedural comfort, can modulate neuronal activity and hemodynamics, potentially skewing the observed outcomes. By circumventing this influence, Bakker et al. ensured that their imaging data accurately captured the neurophysiological responses to acute hypoxia.