TELEMETRY - DECRO Jacket Telemetry System: Revolutionizing Animal Physiology Monitoring
The DECRO jacket telemetry system by Etisense is a non-invasive, state-of-the-art solution designed for physiological monitoring in freely moving laboratory animals, starting from as little as 220 grams in weight. Tailored to meet the needs of researchers working with rats, other similarly sized animals and bigger like minipigs or dogs. DECRO offers a seamless blend of animal welfare, data accuracy, and operational flexibility.
What is the DECRO Jacket Telemetry System?
DECRO is a wearable telemetry solution that allows for the continuous monitoring of physiological parameters in conscious, unrestrained animals. The system consists of a specialized jacket equipped with sensors and a lightweight electronic emitter, ensuring minimal stress and interference with natural animal behavior. DECRO is suitable for animals weighing 220 grams and above, with ongoing development aimed at further miniaturization for even smaller subjects.
Principles of operation
The core principle behind DECRO is non-invasive data acquisition. The system uses a jacket fitted with electrodes and respiratory inductance plethysmography (RIP) bands to capture physiological signals. The jacket’s design ensures a snug fit, maintaining optimal sensor contact while allowing the animal to move freely. Data collected by the sensors is transmitted wirelessly via the emitter, which is powered by a rechargeable battery with up to 12 hours of autonomy. The emitter can be quickly swapped out to extend monitoring sessions as needed.
Applications and measured parameters of jacket telemetry system
DECRO is designed for a wide range of research applications, including:
- Pharmacology and toxicology studies
- Behavioral research
- Cardiorespiratory assessments
- Post-surgical monitoring
- Protective applications (e.g., wound or catheter protection with “nude” jackets)
While DECRO does not currently support blood pressure measurement due to its non-invasive nature, it reliably captures key physiological parameters such as:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Respiratory rate and patterns (via RIP bands)
These capabilities make DECRO an invaluable tool for studies requiring continuous, high-quality cardiorespiratory data in conscious animals.
How the telemetry jackets work
The DECRO jacket is central to the system’s functionality. Available in multiple sizes to accommodate different species, strains, and growth stages, the jacket is designed for single-animal use to prevent cross-contamination and stress. The snug fit ensures reliable sensor placement and signal quality. Jackets are consumable items and are not intended for reuse or washing; they can be sterilized using H2O2 or ionizing radiation, but not by autoclave.
For studies requiring repeated measurements over time, size charts help researchers anticipate growth and select appropriate jacket sizes. The system has been tested for up to 48 hours of continuous use without adverse effects on animal welfare or equipment integrity.
DECRO software features
- Web-based access: No installation required; accessible via any web browser without the need for an internet connection.
- Scalability: The system can be upgraded as new functionalities are released.
- Flexible scheduling: Users can schedule data acquisitions to optimize battery life.
- Data management: All raw and calculated data are stored in non-proprietary formats (
xls,csv,hdf5) for easy export, analysis, and archiving. - Remote upgrades: Proprietary software supports remote installation of updates.
Conclusion
The DECRO jacket telemetry system represents a significant advancement in animal research, offering a humane, flexible, and robust platform for physiological monitoring. By combining innovative hardware with intuitive software, DECRO empowers researchers to obtain high-quality data while prioritizing animal welfare and operational efficiency.
Try DECRO with Animalab – Free Demonstration System Available!
Animalab offers the opportunity to rent a demonstration DECRO system for one rat free of charge for one week. We are committed to supporting your research and can organize an online or on-site meeting to guide you through the installation and setup of the DECRO system. This is a great way to experience the advantages of DECRO firsthand and ensure a smooth start for your studies. Contact our Product Manager Hanna Majchrzak to schedule your demo, click or write email to hm[at]animalab.pl.
