No funding to declare.

The skeletal muscle procedure as described follows the guidelines of the Appalachian State University Institutional Review Board.
NOTE: The team consists of an operator (Ph.D. or M.D. trained in the biopsy technique), and at least one, but ideally, three or more technicians. The operator is responsible for conducting and overseeing all aspects of the skeletal muscle biopsy procedure. One technician (technician #1) is immediately responsible for assisting the operator with all aspects of muscle extraction. This includes being the &#8220;non-sterile hands&#8221; and applying suction with a sterile syringe. A second technician (technician #2) engages in conversation with subject and massages the subject&#8217;s opposite leg during procedure to minimize the subject&#39;s anxiety. The third technician (technician #3) is responsible for handling and processing the skeletal muscle sample. Downstream analytical measures dictate how many additional technicians are required for processing/preparing the skeletal muscle sample.
1. Subject Preparation
<ol>
	<li>Gather, prepare, and organize the materials specified for the muscle biopsy procedure (Table 1). Decontaminate and sterilize the Bergstr&#246;m needle (outer cannula and inner trocar) and the plunger according to standard practice16.</li>
	<li>Review the consent form with the subject. The skeletal muscle biopsy portion of the Consent to Participate form used at Appalachian State University is provided in online supplement 1.
	<ol>
		<li>Talk to the subject about the general aspects of the muscle biopsy procedure with a focus on possible risks of the procedure, skin preparation, application of the anesthetic, typical sensations. Instruct the subject to carefully read the Consent to Participate form and sign it to confirm that the study design and procedures are understood.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Confirm that the subject is not allergic to &#8220;___caine&#8221;-type medications (e.g., lidocaine).</li>
	<li>Instruct the subject to lie supine on a padded table with the thigh exposed. Place two disposable absorbent underpads with plastic backing under the subject&#8217;s leg. Position the leg in a relaxed manner with a small towel roll under the heel, such that the knee is fully extended (elevated ~1 cm), thus placing the vastus lateralis in a shortened position.</li>
	<li>Have the operator instruct the subject to momentarily contract the exposed thigh muscle so that the biopsy site can be visualized. Note: The vastus lateralis biopsy site is just anterior to the fascia lata (illiotibial band), approximately one-third of the distance between the top of the patella and the greater trochanter7.</li>
	<li>Have the operator mark just below (~0.5 cm) the incision site with a fine point permanent marker.</li>
	<li>Have the operator determine the approximate skinfold thickness by pinching the skinfold.</li>
	<li>Have the operator and technicians wash their hands with soap and warm water and don disposable gloves.</li>
	<li>Have the operator remove the hair from a region ~15 cm x 15 cm around the biopsy site (via clippers). Note: clipping the hair from the biopsy site prevents hair from getting into the incision during the procedure and during closing, and hair removal allows for better contact between the tape closures and the skin (see 3.4).</li>
	<li>Have the operator sterilize the area with swabs pre-soaked with a topical antiseptic, (such as povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine gluconate for subjects allergic to iodine/shellfish). Begin in the center and work in concentric circles towards the outer edge of the clipped area. At a minimum, repeat twice more with a new pre-soaked swab each time.</li>
</ol>
2. Biopsy Procedure
<ol>
	<li>Have the operator remove disposable gloves, wash hands with soap and warm water, and don sterile surgical gloves using aseptic technique.</li>
	<li>Have technician #1 present the sterile fenestrated drape to the operator. Have the operator, using aseptic technique, place the drape over the biopsy site to maintain a sterile field.</li>
	<li>Have technician #1 present the operator a 5 ml syringe fitted with a 21 G needle while maintaining aseptic technique. Clean the top of the lidocaine vial with an alcohol swab.
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator immediately withdraw 5 ml of lidocaine. Remove the 21 G needle from the syringe and discard the needle into a sharps container.</li>
		<li>Have technician #1 present the operator with a 1-&#189; inch 25 G needle while maintaining aseptic technique. Have the operator place the 1-&#189; inch needle onto the syringe and evacuate the air bubbles from the syringe.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have technician #1 spray ethyl chloride on the incision site (~0.5 cm above the indelible ink mark on the skin) until the skin appears to &#8220;blanch.&#8221;
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator insert the needle approximately horizontal to the skin into the dermis, aspirate the needle, and then infiltrate with ~100 &#181;l of lidocaine to produce a &#8220;bleb&#8221; 2-4 mm in diameter.
		<ol>
			<li>Have the operator aspirate the needle (slightly withdraw the plunger of the syringe) to confirm that the needle has not been placed in a blood vessel. If blood appears in the syringe, withdraw the needle, discard in a sharps container, and begin again at 2.3.</li>
			<li>Have the operator advance the needle into the subcutaneous tissue, aspirate the needle, and then infiltrate the tissue with ~1 ml of lidocaine to form a bleb. Once the bleb has subsided, insert the 1-&#189; inch needle on the lidocaine-loaded syringe vertically into the incision site, stopping superficial to the fascia. Note: The subject may feel a slight momentary stinging sensation upon the initial injection of lidocaine (similar to a bee sting).</li>
		</ol>
		</li>
		<li>Ensure that the operator does not infiltrate the muscle with lidocoine because it is myotoxic17-19.</li>
		<li>Have the operator aspirate the needle and then slowly inject the remaining 4 ml of lidocaine while withdrawing the needle from the thigh. Place sterile gauze over injection site and allow the subject to relax while the local anesthetic takes effect.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>After 2-3 min, have technician #1 present the operator a scalpel while maintaining aseptic technique.
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator lightly probe the biopsy site with the tip of the scalpel to confirm that the area is anesthetized. If necessary, inject another 3-4 ml of lidocaine into the incision site, see 2.4.1.2.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have the operator make a straight 1-cm incision through the skin and subcutaneous tissues (~2-3 mm above the ink mark) parallel to the femur.
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator insert the scalpel deeper to make an incision through the fascia into the muscle. Do this once in each direction. Note: The subject may feel a twinge or pressure with the deeper cut if the scalpel blade cuts into the muscle.</li>
		<li>Have technician #2 engage the subject in conversation and massage the opposite leg.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have the operator place a liberal amount of sterile gauze over the incision and biopsy site and apply direct pressure to the incision to reduce bleeding.
	<ol>
		<li>Have technician #1 connect the 3-way metal stopcock to the disposable 60 ml syringe and the 30 cm extension tubing (Figure 1).</li>
		<li>Have technician #1 connect one end of the tapered plastic tubing connecter into the free end of the extension tubing and firmly insert the other end of the tapered plastic tubing connecter into the large end of a 200 &#181;l pipette tip with ~15-18 mm of the tip cut off.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
<img alt="Figure 1" fo:content-width="5in" src="/files/ftp_upload/51812/51812fig1highres.jpg" width="500" /> 
Figure 1. The Bergstr&#246;m needle. (A) The Bergstr&#246;m needle (5 mm) is composed of the (a) outer cannula and (b) inner trocar, the associated components include (c) plunger, (d) 200 &#181;l pipette tip with ~15-18 mm cut off, (e) tapered plastic connector, (f) 3-way metal stopcock, (g) 30 cm extension tubing, and (h) disposable 60 ml syringe. (B) The Bergstr&#246;m needle (5 mm) and associated components assembled. (C) The inner trocar of the Bergstr&#246;m needle (5 mm) withdrawn approximately 1 cm opens the window of the outer cannula.
<ol start="9">
	<li>After the bleeding has subsided, have technician #1 open the sterilized autoclave pouch and present the 5 mm biopsy needle and inner trocar (Figure 1) to the operator while maintaining aseptic technique.
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator assemble the needle (outer cannula and inner trocar), check alignment and sliding action.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have the operator firmly hold the needle assembly (outer cannula and inner trocar) with both hands to prevent the inner trocar from rotating. Have technician #1 firmly insert the cut pipette tip into the top of the inner trocar portion of the biopsy needle with a slight downward twisting motion. Ensure that technician #1 does not touch the operator or the biopsy needle, only the pipette tip.</li>
	<li>Have the operator introduce the biopsy needle into the tissue through the incision. Locate the incision in the fascia (an acquired &#8220;feel&#8221;) with the tip of the biopsy needle. Advance the needle just past the fascia and then angle the needle downward toward the floor as the needle is advanced into the muscle. Note: Subjects may experience some mild discomfort (e.g., &#8220;deep pressure,&#8221; or mild cramping sensation) as the incision through the fascia is located with the tip of the biopsy needle and the needle is advanced into the muscle.
	<ol>
		<li>Have technician #2 instruct the subject to stay &#8220;relaxed&#8221; and not to contract their thigh muscles while the operator is advancing the needle into the muscle.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Once the biopsy needle is in position, have the operator signal technician #1 to open the disposable 60 ml syringe.
	<ol>
		<li>Have technician #1 rapidly pull the disposable 60 ml syringe open to the 40-50 cc mark to create suction within the biopsy needle.</li>
		<li>Have the operator pull the inner trocar out approximately 1 cm to open the window of the outer cannula while maintaining the position of the outer trocar within the muscle. Have the operator rapidly close the inner trocar to cut (clip) and collect the muscle sample. Have the operator signal technician #1 to release suction.</li>
		<li>Have technician #1 open the stopcock to the room to release the suction.</li>
		<li>Have the operator rotate the biopsy needle 90&#176; and repeat the process. If required, have the operator repeat the rotation procedure up to 3x (for a total of 4 clips).</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have the operator apply direct counter-pressure to the incision site with sterile gauze while removing the biopsy needle from the thigh, being careful not to catch fascia or skin. If significant resistance is felt, re-cut while applying a twisting motion to the inner trocar.</li>
	<li>Upon removal of the biopsy needle from the thigh, have the operator pull the inner trocar back 1 cm to visually inspect the lumen of the outer cannula to estimate if an adequate amount of tissue was collected.
	<ol>
		<li>Have the operator hand the biopsy needle to technician #1. To maintain aseptic technique ensure that technician #1 only touches the needle, not the operator. Have technician #1 hand the biopsy needle to technician #3.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have technician #3 remove the tissue from the biopsy needle.
	<ol>
		<li>Have technician #3 use the plunger (Figure 1) and a pair of fine tip forceps to ensure that all muscle tissue is removed from the inner trocar and outer cannula.</li>
		<li>Have technician #3 quickly weigh the sample to confirm that an adequate amount of muscle tissue was collected and place the samples on an ice-cold dissection block.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Have technician #3 carefully dissect visible connective tissue and fat from the muscle samples. Have technician #3 prepare the muscle samples for storage according to downstream analyses. For example, immediately place samples in a cryovial and snap freeze in liquid nitrogen, mount and freeze for histology, or place in a cryovial with RNase inhibitor, etc.</li>
	<li>If necessary, repeat the procedure with a second sterilized biopsy needle while maintaining aseptic technique.</li>
</ol>
3. Closure
<ol>
	<li>Have the operator apply direct pressure to biopsy site with sterile gauze and an ice pack for 10-15 min.</li>
	<li>Once hemostasis is achieved, have the operator use alcohol prep pads to remove dried blood from the area around the incision.</li>
	<li>Have technician #1 present a tube of topical surgical adhesive and applicator to the operator. Have the operator assemble the tube of surgical adhesive and applicator without touching the applicator tip or the top of the tube.</li>
	<li>Have the operator pull the incision closed with one hand while applying a single layer of surgical adhesive over the top of the dry incision with the other hand. After the adhesive cures (~ 90 sec), apply tape closuresperpendicular to the incision. Alternatively, close the incision with two sterile 4-0 sutures.</li>
	<li>Have the operator apply direct pressure by placing 3-4 2&#8221; x 2&#8221; non-sterile gauze pads on the incision site and secure with self-adhering adhesive wrap.</li>
	<li>Have the operator provide the subject verbal and written instructions on proper wound care, normal and abnormal reactions, and activity guidelines for the following 1 to 4 days (see online supplement 2).</li>
</ol>

<ol>
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Determined by neutron activation analysis on needle biopsy specimens.</a> Scand J Clin Lab Invest (England). 14, (1962).</li><li>Bergstrom, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+needle+biopsy+of+skeletal+muscle+in+physiological+and+clinical+research).">Percutaneous needle biopsy of skeletal muscle in physiological and clinical research).</a> Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 35, 609-616 (1975).</li><li>Bergstrom, J., Hultman, E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+study+of+the+glycogen+metabolism+during+exercise+in+man.">A study of the glycogen metabolism during exercise in man.</a> Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 19, 218-228 (1967).</li><li>Evans, W. J., Phinney, S. D., Young, V. 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A., Pearce, E., Smith, K., Lach, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Suction-modified+Bergstrom+muscle+biopsy+technique:+experience+with+13,500+procedures.">Suction-modified Bergstrom muscle biopsy technique: experience with 13,500 procedures.</a> Muscl., &amp; Nerve. 43, 717-725 (2011).</li><li>Nieman, D. C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Carbohydrate+ingestion+influences+skeletal+muscle+cytokine+mRNA+and+plasma+cytokine+levels+after+a+3-h+run.">Carbohydrate ingestion influences skeletal muscle cytokine mRNA and plasma cytokine levels after a 3-h run.</a> J Appl Physiol. 94, 1917-1925 (2003).</li><li>Nieman, D. 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The authors have no conflicts of interest.

This video provides a step-by-step summary of the skeletal muscle biopsy procedure used at the ASU Human Performance Laboratory. This procedure, with small modifications, has been used to collect approximately 1,600 muscle biopsies during the past 13 years. The muscle biopsy samples have provided important data in sports nutrition based investigations, leading to important research discoveries.
There are many critical techniques to be aware of when performing the modified Bergstr&#246;m skelet...

The percutaneous or &#8216;semi-open&#8217; biopsy technique is used to obtain skeletal muscle tissue specimens from human patients and research subjects. Duchenne (1806-1875) is credited as the first to construct a needle with a trocar to obtain skeletal muscle from living subjects through percutaneous biopsy1. In the 1960&#8217;s, Bergstr&#246;m introduced a percutaneous biopsy needle similar to that described by Duchenne2-4. Twenty years later, Evans et al.5 modified the technique by applying suction through the cutting trocar of the Bergstr&#246;m needle. This modification can enhance the yield of tissue 3- to 5-fold6,7 and is employed in clinical and biomedical research settings. This technique has and will continue to foster the diagnosis of myopathies and our understanding of the structure and function of skeletal muscle.
The percutaneous muscle biopsy technique is straightforward. When done correctly, with strict adherence to aseptic technique, the associated risks are minimal. The muscle biopsy procedure is regarded as an investigational tool for research projects. Some academic institutions allow trained faculty researchers with a Ph.D., with direct physician oversight, to obtain muscle biopsies and others require a board-certified physician to perform the technique. The ASU biopsy team has successfully performed over 1,600 muscle biopsies during the past 13 years8-15. The purpose of this video is to describe the modified Bergstr&#246;m needle percutaneous muscle biopsy technique5 to obtain skeletal muscle tissue samples from the vastus lateralis of human subjects.

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			<td height="24" style="height:24px;width:439px;">Name of Material / Equipment</td>
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			<td style="width:204px;">Comments /&#160; Description</td>
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			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Bergstr&#246;m biopsy needle, 5 x 100mm</td>
			<td style="width:185px;">Stille Surgical Inc.</td>
			<td>119-29187-50</td>
			<td>1 ea</td>
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			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>22-031-340</td>
			<td>case of 300</td>
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			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Prep Razor Disposable</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>89760</td>
			<td>1 ea</td>
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			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Shave Cream</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
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			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>98721</td>
			<td>box/200</td>
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			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Povidone-iodine Swabsticks (3 pack)</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>90691</td>
			<td>pack of 50</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Face masks</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>19-039-690</td>
			<td>case of 50</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Sterile Gloves; sz 6.5</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>68128</td>
			<td>box of 50 pairs</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Sterile Gloves; sz 7.0</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>68129</td>
			<td>box of 50 pairs</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Sterile Gloves; sz 8.5</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>68132</td>
			<td>box of 50 pairs</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Fenestrated Towel Drape</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>92712</td>
			<td>case of 50</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Lidocaine (1% HCl, w/o Epi</td>
			<td>Dealmed</td>
			<td>427902</td>
			<td>30cc vial</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Ethyl Chloride spray</td>
			<td>Dealmed</td>
			<td>386020</td>
			<td>3.5 fl. Oz. bottle</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">5 mL syringe w/ 21G needle</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>14-827-48</td>
			<td>case of 100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">25G 5/8&#34; needle</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>14-826AA</td>
			<td>case of 100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">25G 1 1/2&#34; needle</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>14-826-49</td>
			<td>case of 100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Single-Use Scalpels&#160; w/ #11 blade</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>0-8927-5B</td>
			<td>box of 20</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">60 mL Syringe</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>13-689-8</td>
			<td>case of 40</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">~30 inch extension tubing</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>14-169-7A</td>
			<td>roll of 50ft</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Metal stopcock</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>01-290-38</td>
			<td>each</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Polypropylene tubing connector w/ tapered ends, 3.2 to 5.5 mm</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>15-315-28A</td>
			<td>case of 100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Yellow pipette tips (1-200 &#181;L)</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>02-681-2</td>
			<td>cut off&#160; ~15-18 mm of the tip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Topical surgical adhesive</td>
			<td>Medline</td>
			<td>MSC091076</td>
			<td>case of 36 tubes</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Topical surgical adhesive</td>
			<td>Medline</td>
			<td>MSC091076Z</td>
			<td>box of 6 tubes</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Butterfly stitches (adhesive strips) 1/2&#34; x 4&#34; (6 per pack)</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>93050</td>
			<td>box/300</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Bandadge, Strip, 3/4 x 3 in.</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>19-027-202</td>
			<td>pack of 100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Adhesive bandage (5m rolls)</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>19-027-768</td>
			<td>case of 36</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">1&#34; paper surgical tape</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>19-027-761</td>
			<td>case of 12</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Sutures (4-0 reverse cutting, FS2)</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>82926</td>
			<td>box of 36</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">4 x 4 sterile gauze pads</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>66949</td>
			<td>pkg/50</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">2 x 2 non-sterile gauze pads</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>37336</td>
			<td>pkg/200</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">3 x 4 Non-Adherent Pads</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>74389</td>
			<td>bx/100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Autoclave bags 3.5 x 9</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>40390</td>
			<td>box of 200</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Autoclave bags 5.25 x 10</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>40391</td>
			<td>box of 200</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Autoclave indicator tape</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>31608</td>
			<td>box of 250</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Lab Coats&#8212;small</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>23-900-520A&#160;</td>
			<td>10/pk</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Lab Coats&#8212;medium</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>23-900-520B&#160;</td>
			<td>10/pk</td>
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		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Lab Coats&#8212;large</td>
			<td>Fisher</td>
			<td>23-900-520C&#160;</td>
			<td>10/pk</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="24">
			<td height="24" style="height:24px;">Germicidal Disposable Cloth Wipes</td>
			<td>Moore Medical</td>
			<td>62879</td>
			<td>Can/160</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

human skeletal muscle biopsy procedures using the modified bergstr&#246;m technique

The percutaneous biopsy technique enables researchers and clinicians to collect skeletal muscle tissue samples. The technique is safe and highly effective. This video describes the percutaneous biopsy technique using a modified Bergstr&#246;m needle to obtain skeletal muscle tissue samples from the vastus lateralis of human subjects. The Bergstr&#246;m needle consists of an outer cannula with a small opening (&#8216;window&#8217;) at the side of the tip and an inner trocar with a cutting blade at the distal end. Under local anesthesia and aseptic conditions, the needle is advanced into the skeletal muscle through an incision in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and fascia. Next, suction is applied to the inner trocar, the outer trocar is pulled back, skeletal muscle tissue is drawn into the window of the outer cannula by the suction, and the inner trocar is rapidly closed, thus cutting or clipping the skeletal muscle tissue sample. The needle is rotated 90&#176;&#160;and another cut is made. This process may be repeated three more times. This multiple cutting technique typically produces a sample of 100-200 mg or more in healthy subjects and can be done immediately before, during, and after a bout of exercise or other intervention. Following post-biopsy dressing of the incision site, subjects typically resume their activities of daily living right away and can fully participate in vigorous physical activity within 48-72 hr. Subjects should avoid heavy resistance exercise for 48 hr to reduce the risk of herniation of the muscle through the incision in the fascia.

The muscle biopsy procedure as described above allows the researcher to quickly and consistently collect skeletal muscle tissue samples. The typical yield in healthy, athletic subjects is 200 mg or more in a single pass with 3-4 clips. The procedure takes 15-20 min, most of which is spent in preparation for the incision. In exercise-based studies, muscle samples are often taken pre- and post-exercise, with one or two samples collected during recovery. With this design, the hair on the post-exercise (contralateral) thigh ...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Human Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Procedures Using the Modified BergstrÃ¶m Technique at JoVE.com

Human Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Procedures Using the Modified Bergstr&amp;#246;m Technique

The purpose of this video is to present the modified Bergstr&#246;m skeletal muscle biopsy technique on human subjects.

Human Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Procedures Using the Modified Bergstr&#246;m Technique

The percutaneous biopsy technique enables researchers and clinicians to collect skeletal muscle tissue samples. The technique is safe and highly ...

human-skeletal-muscle-biopsy-procedures-using-modified-bergstrm

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

39.5K Views.  Appalacian State University. The purpose of this video is to present the modified Bergström skeletal muscle biopsy technique on human subjects. 

Video: Human Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Procedures Using the Modified Bergstr&#246;m Technique

Myo-mechanical Analysis of Isolated Skeletal Muscle

To assess the in vivo effects of therapeutic interventions for the treatment of muscle disease 1,2,3, quantitative methods are needed that measure force generation and fatigability in treated muscle. We describe a detailed approach to evaluating myo-mechanical properties in freshly explanted hindlimb muscle from the mouse. We describe the atraumatic harvest of mouse extensor digitorum longus muscle, mounting the muscle in a muscle strip myograph (Model 820MS; Danish Myo Technology), and the measurement of maximal twitch and tetanic tension, contraction time, and half-relaxation time, using a square pulse stimulator (Model S48; Grass Technologies). Using these measurements, we demonstrate the calculation of specific twitch and tetanic tension normalized to muscle cross-sectional area, the twitch-to-tetanic tension ratio, the force-frequency relationship curve and the low frequency fatigue curve 4. This analysis provides a method for quantitative comparison between therapeutic interventions in mouse models of muscle disease 1,2,3,5, as well as comparison of the effects of genetic modification on muscle function 6,7,8,9.

To assess the in vivo effects of therapeutic interventions for muscle disease, methods are needed to quantitate force generation and fatigability in treated muscle. We detail an approach to evaluating myo-mechanical properties in explanted mouse hindlimb muscle. This analysis provides a robust approach to quantitating the effects of genetic modification on muscle function, as well as comparison of therapies in mouse models of muscle disease.

To assess the in vivo effects of therapeutic interventions for the treatment of muscle disease 1,2,3, quantitative methods are needed that measure force ...

Skeletal Muscle Gender Dimorphism from Proteomics

Gross contraction in skeletal muscle is primarily determined by a relatively small number of contractile proteins, however this tissue is also remarkably adaptable to environmental factors1 such as hypertrophy by resistance exercise and atrophy by disuse. It thereby exhibits remodeling and adaptations to stressors (heat, ischemia, heavy metals, etc.)2,3. Damage can occur to muscle by a muscle exerting force while lengthening, the so-called eccentric contraction4. The contractile proteins can be damaged in such exertions and need to be repaired, degraded and/or resynthesized; these functions are not part of the contractile proteins, but of other much less abundant proteins in the cell. To determine what subset of proteins is involved in the amelioration of this type of damage, a global proteome must be established prior to exercise5 and then followed subsequent to the exercise to determine the differential protein expression and thereby highlight candidate proteins in the adaptations to damage and its repair. Furthermore, most studies of skeletal muscle have been conducted on the male of the species and hence may not be representative of female muscle. 
In this article we present a method for extracting proteins reproducibly from male and female muscles, and separating them by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by high resolution digital imaging6. This provides a protocol for spots (and subsequently identified proteins) that show a statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05) two-fold increase or decrease, appear or disappear from the control state. These are then excised, digested with trypsin and separated by high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (LC/MS) for protein identification (LC/MS/MS)5. This methodology (Figure 1) can be used on many tissues with little to no modification (liver, brain, heart etc.).

A straight-forward set of methods to isolate and determine the identity of the most abundant proteins expressed in skeletal muscle. About 800 spots are discerned on a two-dimensional gel from 10 mg muscle; this allows for the determination of gender-specific protein expression. These methods will give equivalent results in most tissues.

Gross contraction in skeletal muscle is primarily determined by a relatively small number of contractile proteins, however this tissue is also remarkably ...

Skin Punch Biopsy Explant Culture for Derivation of Primary Human Fibroblasts

Tissues and cell lines derived from an individual with disease are ideal sources to study disease-related cellular phenotypes. Patient-derived fibroblasts in this protocol have been successfully used in the derivation of induced pluripotent stem cells to model disease1. Early passages of these fibroblasts can also be used for cell-based functional assays to study specific disease pathways, mechanisms2 and subsequent drug screening approaches. The advantage of the presented protocol over enzymatic procedures are 1) the reproducibility of the technique from small amounts of tissue derived from older patients, e.g. patients affected with Parkinson's disease, 2) the technically simple approach over more challenging methodologies using enzymatic treatments, and 3) the time consideration: this protocol takes 15-20 min and can be performed immediately after biopsy arrival. Enzymatic treatments can take up to 4 hr and have the problems of overdigestion, reduction of cell viability and subsequent attachment of cells when not handled properly. This protocol describes the dissection and preparation of a 4-mm human skin biopsy for derivation of a fibroblast culture and has a very high success rate which is important when dealing with patient-derived tissue samples. In this culture, keratinocytes migrate out of the biopsy tissue within the first week after preparation. Fibroblasts appear 7-10 days after the first outgrowth of keratinocytes. DMEM high glucose media supplemented with 20% FBS favors the growth of fibroblasts over keratinocytes and fibroblasts will overgrow the keratinocytes. After 2 passages keratinocytes have been diluted out resulting in relatively homogenous fibroblast cultures which expresses the fibroblast marker SERPINH1 (HSP-47). Using this approach, 15-20 million fibroblasts can be derived in 4-8 weeks for cell banking. The skin dissection takes about 15-20 min, cells are then monitored once a day under the microscope, and media is changed every 2-3 days after attachment and outgrowth of cells.

The fibroblast explant culture protocol from human skin punch biopsies is a technically robust and simple way to derive skin cells within 4-8 weeks for banking of about 15-20 million cells at a low passage number.

Tissues and cell lines derived from an individual with disease are ideal sources to study disease-related cellular phenotypes. Patient-derived fibroblasts ...

Tibial Nerve Transection - A Standardized Model for Denervation-induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy in Mice

The tibial nerve transection model is a well-tolerated, validated, and reproducible model of denervation-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in rodents. Although originally developed and used extensively in the rat due to its larger size, the tibial nerve in mice is big enough that it can be easily manipulated with either crush or transection, leaving the peroneal and sural nerve branches of the sciatic nerve intact and thereby preserving their target muscles. Thus, this model offers the advantages of inducing less morbidity and impediment of ambulation than the sciatic nerve transection model and also allows investigators to study the physiologic, cellular and molecular biologic mechanisms regulating the process of muscle atrophy in genetically engineered mice. The tibial nerve supplies the gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris muscles, so its transection permits the study of denervated skeletal muscle composed of fast twitch type II fibers and/or slow twitch type I fibers. Here we demonstrate the tibial nerve transection model in the C57Black6 mouse. We assess the atrophy of the gastrocnemius muscle, as a representative muscle, at 1, 2, and 4 weeks post-denervation by measuring muscle weights and fiber type specific cross-sectional area on paraffin-embedded histologic sections immunostained for fast twitch myosin.

The tibial nerve transection model is a well-tolerated, validated, and reproducible model of skeletal muscle atrophy. The model surgical protocol is described and demonstrated in C57Black6 mice. &#160;

The tibial nerve transection model is a well-tolerated, validated, and reproducible model of denervation-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in rodents. ...

Murine Cervical Heart Transplantation Model Using a Modified Cuff Technique

Mouse models are of special interest in research since a wide variety of monoclonal antibodies and commercially defined inbred and knockout strains are available to perform mechanistic in vivo studies. While heart transplantation models using a suture technique were first successfully developed in rats, the translation into an equally widespread used murine equivalent was never achieved due the technical complexity of the microsurgical procedure. In contrast, non-suture cuff techniques, also developed initially in rats, were successfully adapted for use in mice1-3. This technique for revascularization involves two major steps I) everting the recipient vessel over a polyethylene cuff; II) pulling the donor vessel over the formerly everted recipient vessel and holding it in place with a circumferential tie. This ensures a continuity of the endothelial layer, short operating time and very high patency rates4.
Using this technique for vascular anastomosis we performed more than 1,000 cervical heart transplants with an overall success rate of 95%. For arterial inflow the common carotid artery and the proximal aortic arch were anastomosed resulting in a retrograde perfusion of the transplanted heart. For venous drainage the pulmonary artery of the graft was anastomosed with the external jugular vein of the recipient5.
Herein, we provide additional details of this technique to supplement the video.

The murine cervical heart transplantation model is well suited for immunological as well as ischemia reperfusion injury studies. We modified the procedure using a non-suture cuff technique and performed more than 1,000 successful transplants with this approach.
Herein, we provide additional details of this technique to supplement the video.

Mouse models are of special interest in research since a wide variety of monoclonal antibodies and commercially defined inbred and knockout strains are ...

High-throughput Flow Cytometry Cell-based Assay to Detect Antibodies to N-Methyl-D-aspartate Receptor or Dopamine-2 Receptor in Human Serum

Over the recent years, antibodies against surface and conformational proteins involved in neurotransmission have been detected in autoimmune CNS diseases in children and adults. These antibodies have been used to guide diagnosis and treatment. Cell-based assays have improved the detection of antibodies in patient serum. They are based on the surface expression of brain antigens on eukaryotic cells, which are then incubated with diluted patient sera followed by fluorochrome-conjugated secondary antibodies. After washing, secondary antibody binding is then analyzed by flow cytometry. Our group has developed a high-throughput flow cytometry live cell-based assay to reliably detect antibodies against specific neurotransmitter receptors. This flow cytometry method is straight forward, quantitative, efficient, and the use of a high-throughput sampler system allows for large patient cohorts to be easily assayed in a short space of time. Additionally, this cell-based assay can be easily adapted to detect antibodies to many different antigenic targets, both from the central nervous system and periphery. Discovering additional novel antibody biomarkers will enable prompt and accurate diagnosis and improve treatment of immune-mediated disorders.

Over the recent years, live cell-based assays have been used successfully to detect antibodies against surface and conformational antigens. Here, we describe a method using high-throughput flow cytometry enabling the analysis of large cohorts of patients. Detection of novel antibodies will improve diagnosis and treatment of immune-mediated disorders.

Over the recent years, antibodies against surface and conformational proteins involved in neurotransmission have been detected in autoimmune CNS diseases ...

Preparation and Respirometric Assessment of Mitochondria Isolated from Skeletal Muscle Tissue Obtained by Percutaneous Needle Biopsy

Respirometric profiling of isolated mitochondria is commonly used to investigate electron transport chain function. We describe a method for obtaining samples of human Vastus lateralis, isolating mitochondria from minimal amounts of skeletal muscle tissue, and plate based respirometric profiling using an extracellular flux (XF) analyzer. Comparison of respirometric profiles obtained using 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 &#956;g of mitochondria indicate that 1.0 &#956;g is sufficient to measure respiration and that 5.0 &#956;g provides most consistent results based on comparison of standard errors. Western blot analysis of isolated mitochondria for mitochondrial marker COX IV and non-mitochondrial tissue marker GAPDH indicate that there is limited non-mitochondrial contamination using this protocol. The ability to study mitochondrial respirometry in as little as 20 mg of muscle tissue allows users to utilize individual biopsies for multiple study endpoints in clinical research projects.

Methods for biopsy of Vastus lateralis, preparation of purified mitochondria, and respirometric profiling are described. The use of small muscle volume makes this technique suitable for clinical research applications.

Respirometric profiling of isolated mitochondria is commonly used to investigate electron transport chain function. We describe a method for obtaining ...

Human Vastus Lateralis Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Using the Weil-Blakesley Conchotome

Percutaneous muscle biopsy using the Weil-Blakesley conchotome is well established in both clinical and research practice. It is a safe, effective and well tolerated technique. The Weil-Blakesley conchotome has a sharp biting tip with a 4 - 6 mm wide hollow. It is inserted through a 5 - 10 mm skin incision and can be maneuvered for controlled tissue penetration. The tip is opened and closed within the tissue and then rotated through 90 -180&#176; to cut the muscle. The amount of muscle obtained following repeated sampling can vary from 20 mg to 290 mg which can be processed for both histology and molecular studies. The wound needs to be kept dry and vigorous physical activity kept to a minimum for approximately 72 hr although normal levels of activity can restart immediately following the procedure. This procedure is safe and effective when close attention is paid to the selection of subjects, full asepsis and post procedure care. &#160;Both right and left vastus lateralis are suitable for biopsy dependent on participant preference.

Human Vastus Lateralis Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Using the Weil-Blakesley Conchotome

This video demonstrates the technique of percutaneous muscle biopsy of the human vastus lateralis using the Weil-Blakesley conchotome.

Percutaneous muscle biopsy using the Weil-Blakesley conchotome is well established in both clinical and research practice. It is a safe, effective and ...

Phosphorus-31 Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy: A Tool for Measuring In Vivo Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation Capacity in Human Skeletal Muscle

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) capacity, which is critically important in health and disease, can be measured in vivo and noninvasively in humans via phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31PMRS). However, the approach has not been widely adopted in translational and clinical research, with variations in methodology and limited guidance from the literature. Increased optimization, standardization, and dissemination of methods for in vivo 31PMRS would facilitate the development of targeted therapies to improve OXPHOS capacity and could ultimately favorably impact cardiovascular health. 31PMRS produces a noninvasive, in vivo measure of OXPHOS capacity in human skeletal muscle, as opposed to alternative measures obtained from explanted and potentially altered mitochondria via muscle biopsy. It relies upon only modest additional instrumentation beyond what is already in place on magnetic resonance scanners available for clinical and translational research at most institutions. In this work, we outline a method to measure in vivo skeletal muscle OXPHOS. The technique is demonstrated using a 1.5 Tesla whole-body MR scanner equipped with the suitable hardware and software for 31PMRS, and we explain a simple and robust protocol for in-magnet resistive exercise to rapidly fatigue the quadriceps muscle. Reproducibility and feasibility are demonstrated in volunteers as well as subjects over a wide range of functional capacities.

Phosphorus-31 Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy: A Tool for Measuring In Vivo Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation Capacity in Human Skeletal Muscle

This work demonstrates the feasibility of an in vivo phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31PMRS) technique to quantify mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) capacity in human skeletal muscle.

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) capacity, which is critically important in health and disease, can be measured in vivo ...

Mouse Model for Pancreas Transplantation Using a Modified Cuff Technique

Mouse models have several advantages in transplantation research, including easy handling, a variety of genetically well-defined strains, and the availability of the widest range of molecular probes and reagents to perform in vivo as well as in vitro studies. Based on our experience with various murine transplantation models, we developed a heterotopic pancreas transplantation model in mice with the intent to analyze mechanisms underlying severe ischemia reperfusion injury-associated early graft damage. In contrast to previously described techniques using suture techniques, herein we describe a new procedure using a non-suture cuff technique. 
In recent years, we have performed more than 300 pancreas transplantations in mice with an overall success rate of &gt;90%, a success rate never described before in mouse pancreas transplantation. The backbone of this non-suture cuff technique for graft revascularization consists of two major steps: (I) pulling the recipient vessel over a polyethylene/polyamide cuff and fixing it with a circumferential ligature, and (II) placing the donor vessel over the everted recipient vessel and fixing it with a second circumferential ligature. The resultant continuity of the endothelial layer results in less thrombogenic lesions with high patency rates and, finally, high success rates.
In this model, arterial anastomosis is achieved by pulling the abdominal aorta of the donor graft over the everted common carotid artery of the recipient animal. Venous drainage of the graft is achieved by pulling the portal vein of the graft over the everted external jugular vein of the recipient. This manuscript provides details and crucial steps of the organ recovery and organ implantation procedures, which will allow researchers with microsurgical skills to perform the transplantation successfully in their laboratories.

Among abdominal solid organ transplantation, pancreatic grafts are prone to develop severe ischemia reperfusion injury-associated graft damage, leading eventually to early graft loss. This protocol describes a model of murine pancreas transplantation using a non-suture cuff technique, ideally suited for analyzing these early, deleterious damages.