R. Stam et al., COMPUTER-ANALYSIS OF THE MIGRATING MOTILITY COMPLEX OF THE SMALL-INTESTINE RECORDED IN FREELY MOVING RATS, Journal of pharmacological and toxicological methods, 33(3), 1995, pp. 129-136
Myoelectric activity of the small intestine was recorded digitally in
fasted, freely moving rats fitted with multiple pairs of electrodes in
the antimesenterial smooth muscle. The electrodes were implanted unde
r strict aseptic conditions to safeguard the animal's health and there
by benefit experimental results.As in many other mammalian species, th
e fasted electrical and mechanical activity of the small intestine in
the rat consists of alternating periods of activity and quiescence joi
ntly called the Migrating Motility Complex (MMC). Existing methods for
the analysis of small bowel myoelectric activity either integrate spi
ke activity over longer periods of time or describe characteristics of
single bursts. We have developed a computer program for fast, automat
ed analysis that distinguishes the three characteristic phases of the
MMC. The computer program recognizes periods of varying spike burst fr
equency and then produces a graphical and numerical output of the leng
th and mean burst frequency of the different phases of each MMC that c
orrelates well with the results of visual evaluation. The techniques u
sed are discussed in relation to existing recording and analysis metho
ds, and specific decisions in the program are motivated. The system wi
ll be a useful tool in assessing the effects of drugs, peptides, or st
ress on small bowel motility.