The MyoRobot

Temperature-Control Module for the MyoRobot

Recordings under physiological conditions, e.g. limb (32 °C) or core body (37 °C) temperature were realized by engineering a temperature-controlled multi-well rack for our MyoRobot. Since many physiologists require to quantify Q10 values for functional or kinetics related parameters, this add-on represents a meaningful expansion. The one-pound stainless steel rig is operated by two strong and fast moving ballscrew actuators that allow exchange of active solution while minimizing the preparation’s air-exposure time. Temperature-control was mediated by hose connections to a water bath for heating or cooling, and heat flow was enhanced and stabilized by inbuilt turbulence chambers. The design allows temperature regulation at speeds up to 0.75 °C/min and maintains stable temperature over several hours of experimentation. Accounting for evaporation-induced osmolality changes suggests reliable recording times of around 2 hours above RT to avoid significant alterations in ion concentration. A long-term solution including a lid design with a notch for the biological sample is currently being engineered and is expected to ensure stable recording conditions above RT for more than 6 hours.

CAD design and photograph of the MyoRobot temperature-controlled rack. The device is connected to a water bath and features turbulence chambers for enhanced heating/cooling and stable temperature maintenance.