A low-cost metabolic apparatus for student labs: measuring oxygen consumption and ventilation in conscious mice.

Abstract

Hands-on experience in measuring core physiological parameters like oxygen consumption (V̇o₂) is essential for deep conceptual understanding, yet the prohibitive cost of commercial systems often excludes such experiments from science curricula. To bridge this gap, we developed and implemented a ready-to-use educational module centered on a simple, low-cost metabolic apparatus. The apparatus, constructed from commercially available components, enables direct measurement of V̇o₂ and respiratory parameters in conscious mice by students. Moreover, the apparatus was successfully used to detect and quantify the opposing physiological effects of two classic metabolic-modulating drugs: levothyroxine sodium (increasing V̇o₂ and minute ventilation) and chlorpromazine hydrochloride (decreasing V̇o₂, respiratory frequency, and ventilation). This module transforms abstract principles of energy metabolism, respiratory control, and pharmacology into an investigable, inquiry-based learning experience. The apparatus features straightforward assembly and operation and is accompanied by a comprehensive instructional manual. These attributes render it particularly well suited for integration into undergraduate and graduate physiology and pharmacology laboratories, thereby broadening access to advanced physiological measurement techniques.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We developed a simple, low-cost apparatus for measuring oxygen consumption and respiratory function in conscious mice, using readily available components. This device enables students to directly observe and quantify the effects of classic metabolic-modulating drugs (levothyroxine and chlorpromazine) on energy metabolism and breathing. The apparatus provides a practical, hands-on tool for teaching core concepts in physiology and pharmacology, making sophisticated metabolic measurements accessible to undergraduate and graduate education laboratories where commercial systems are often cost prohibitive.