Meeting Abstract

P2.79  Tuesday, Jan. 5  Cardiovascular function in embryonic Canada geese (Branta canadensis) SWART, Justin C.*; TATE, Kevin B.; REED, Wendy L.; CROSSLEY II, Dane A.; University of North Dakota; University of North Dakota; North Dakota State University; University of North Dakota justin.swart@und.edu

The current understanding of embryonic cardiovascular development in avian species is primarily based on domestic chickens. While these studies have provided valuable information in formulating a general comprehension of this process, to build an understanding of how this developmental process has evolved in birds, non-domesticated species must be investigated. In this study, cardiovascular physiology in Canada geese (Branta canadensis) was assessed at 70% and 90% of development in control embryos as well as in embryos incubated under the chronic challenges of dehydration and elevated corticosterone levels. Resting arterial pressure and heart rate increased from 1.3 ± .07 kPa to 2.6 ± .14 kPa and 234 ± 4.52 beats•min^-1 to 249 ± 6.49 beats•min^-1, respectively, between 70% and 90% of incubation. During this period, vagal tone was present at 90% development while both α-adrenergic and β-adrenergic blockade significantly impacted cardiovascular function at both points of development. It was also evident that hematocrit levels were lower in animals raised under the experimental conditions. Results demonstrate embryonic cardiovascular function varies from that of the domestic chicken and emu. These differences provide additional avenues of investigating how developmental patterns of cardiovascular maturation vary between taxa. Project was supported by a NSF career award to D.A.C IBN# IOS-0845741