Narishige SR-5M / SR-6M Mouse Stereotaxic Instrument

Overview

The Narishige SR-5M and SR-6M Mouse Stereotaxic Instruments are precision-engineered neurosurgical platforms designed specifically for murine models in preclinical neuroscience research. Built upon Narishige’s decades of expertise in micromanipulation and stereotactic instrumentation, these systems implement the classical three-dimensional coordinate system—anteroposterior (AP), mediolateral (ML), and dorsoventral (DV)—to enable reproducible, high-accuracy intracranial targeting. Unlike generic rodent frames, the SR series incorporates anatomically optimized fixation components validated for C57BL/6, BALB/c, and other common laboratory mouse strains (20–35 g). The instrument operates on a rigid, vibration-damped base with calibrated vernier scales (0.1 mm resolution) across all three axes, ensuring mechanical stability during microinjection, electrophysiology, optogenetic fiber implantation, or cranial window surgery. Its modular architecture supports integration with third-party electrophysiology rigs, laser ablation systems, and real-time imaging setups without compromising spatial fidelity.

Key Features

• Anatomically contoured nose clamp engineered to engage incisors securely while minimizing dental pressure—reducing risk of tooth fracture or oral trauma during prolonged procedures.
• Single-hand operable ear bar assembly with tactile feedback mechanism: fingertip pressure confirms bilateral ear pin insertion depth and rotational alignment prior to locking.
• Dual-purpose auxiliary ear pins (EB-5N) designed exclusively for mice—feature tapered stainless-steel tips (0.3 mm diameter) and adjustable insertion depth stops compliant with IACUC-recommended ear canal clearance protocols.
• Standardized 18.7 mm square AP rail interface conforming to Narishige’s universal mounting specification—enables direct attachment of SM-15, SM-11, or compatible third-party micro-manipulators without adapters.
• SR-5M includes one AP rail; SR-6M integrates two parallel rails for simultaneous dual-probe deployment (e.g., concurrent optrode + recording electrode).
• Base frame constructed from anodized aluminum alloy with non-slip rubber feet—meets ISO 13485-compliant manufacturing standards for Class I medical device accessories.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SR-5M/SR-6M accommodates mice weighing 18–40 g with skull lengths ≥12 mm and interaural distances ≥7.5 mm. All contact surfaces are autoclavable (121°C, 20 min) or compatible with 70% ethanol and hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization. Ear bars (EB-3B) and auxiliary pins (EB-5N) comply with ASTM F2100 Level 3 biocompatibility requirements for short-term tissue contact. The system is routinely validated in GLP-compliant behavioral pharmacology studies and aligns with NIH Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (8th Edition) Section IV.C.3 regarding stereotactic restraint methodology. Documentation packages include traceable calibration certificates for vernier scale linearity (±0.02 mm over full travel range).

Software & Data Management

While the SR-5M/SR-6M is a fully manual mechanical platform, it interoperates seamlessly with digital stereotactic planning software including Paxinos & Watson’s Mouse Brain Atlas (v7) via standardized coordinate export (CSV/TXT). When paired with Narishige’s optional digital readout kits (e.g., DS-100), positional data can be logged in real time with timestamped CSV output compatible with MATLAB, Python (Pandas), and LabChart for longitudinal session tracking. Audit trails generated during multi-user lab deployments meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used with validated LIMS integrations.

Applications

• Intracerebroventricular (ICV) and intraparenchymal microinjection of viral vectors, siRNA, or pharmacological agents.
• Chronic implantation of tetrodes, silicon probes, or optofluidic cannulas with sub-millimeter targeting accuracy.
• Stereotactic lesioning using electrolytic, radiofrequency, or laser-based modalities.
• Craniotomy stabilization for two-photon imaging or intrinsic signal optical mapping.
• Training platform for graduate-level neurosurgery technique certification under AAALAC-accredited programs.

FAQ

What is the maximum skull thickness the EB-5N ear pins can accommodate without bending?
EB-5N pins maintain structural integrity up to 0.8 mm cortical bone thickness at standard insertion torque (0.15 N·m); verification via post-procedure µCT is recommended for transgenic models with altered calvarial density.
Can the SR-6M support independent movement of two manipulators along separate rails?
Yes—each 18.7 mm rail has independent vernier lock mechanisms, enabling decoupled AP positioning while maintaining synchronized ML/DV referencing through shared base geometry.
Is the nose clamp compatible with juvenile mice (P21–P28)?
The SR series nose clamp is validated for mice ≥P25 with closed incisors; for younger subjects, Narishige recommends supplemental use of custom silicone bite bars (part #SB-MJ) sold separately.
Does Narishige provide installation validation documentation for IACUC protocol submissions?
Yes—comprehensive technical files including mechanical tolerance reports, material safety data sheets (MSDS), and IACUC-ready procedural checklists are available upon request from authorized distributors.