Recording Changes in Renal Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Response to Arterial Pressure in Rats

Source: Fink, A. M., et al. Quantifying Acute Changes in Renal Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Response to Central Nervous System Manipulations in Anesthetized Rats. J. Vis. Exp. (2018). This video demonstrates a technique of studying the activity of renal sympathetic nerves (RSNs) in response to changes in arterial pressure in rats. Upon attaching a pressure-sensing catheter to the femoral artery, the renal sympathetic nerves are exposed. The nerves are then lifted onto a recording electrode, and their electrical activity is recorded. Next, a vasoconstricting drug is injected to elevate blood pressure, and corresponding changes in RSN activity are monitored.