Live demonstration: Characterization of a wireless implantable infusion micropump for small animal research under simulated in vivo conditions

Rodents are the most widely used animal model in the study of human disease and drug administration technologies suitable for use in rodents are therefore critically important in the development of new treatments. Implantable drug delivery devices provide site specific and controlled drug administration while eliminating frequent handling, tethers, and stress induction associated with other drug delivery methods. Although implantable pumps are commercially available, none are suitable for controlled chronic dosing experiments in mice. These commercial pumps possess one or more of the following deficiencies: too large, limited drug payload, limited lifetime due to single-use battery, single fixed flow rate, or inability to adjust flow rate after implantation.