Triggering and Monitoring Heat-Induced Seizures in a Transgenic Mouse Model

Take an anesthetized transgenic adult mouse carrying a gene mutation that leads to dysfunctional sodium channels in the inhibitory interneurons.

Secure a lubricated rectal probe to monitor its body temperature.

Place the mouse in a recovery cage until its body temperature stabilizes.

Next, transfer the animal to a preheated heat chamber and begin video recording.

Increase the chamber's temperature at regular intervals while monitoring the gradual rise in the mouse's body temperature.

As the body temperature rises, the dysfunction in sodium channels worsens, reducing inhibitory neurotransmitter release.

This reduced release disrupts the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, resulting in neuronal hyperexcitability and seizures.

Record the body temperature during the seizure and note its behavioral characteristics.

Now, place the mouse on a cooling pad until its body temperature normalizes.

Finally, remove the rectal probe and allow the mouse to recover.