About
VasoTracker originated from a need to find a cost-effective alternative to expensive commercial systems used for studying blood vessel function. The initial VasoTracker system was a custom pressure myograph bath coupled with software designed for the live measurement of blood vessel diameter. Recognizing that other researchers might face similar challenges and benefit from our solution, we released these tools as open-source resources. Since then, VasoTracker has expanded to include additional devices and software that are now used in research laboratories across the world
Dr Calum Wilson
Co-founder and lead developer (University of Strathclyde)
Dr Matthew Lee
Co-founder and developer.
Prof John McCarron
Scientific advisor (University of Strathclyde)
Dr Chris Osborne
Software advisor (University of Glasgow)
Contributions
The ongoing development of VasoTracker has been a collaborative effort, made possible by invaluable contributions of numerous individuals. We thank everyone who has supported and enhanced this project. Some of these dedicated contributors are highlighted below.
Chief Tester
Enclosure Design
VasoMoto Inventor
Dr Carl White
Very First Tester
Dr Chris D Saunter
Prof John M Girkin
Initial Software Development
Dr Osama Harraz
Testing & Troubleshooting
Dr Jason S Au
Ultrasound Analysis
Labs Using VasoTracker
VasoTracker is used in laboratories working at the forefront of physiology research. Here are some examples.
The Collier lab aims to elucidate how traumatic brain injury leads to vascular dysfunction and so unveil new therapies to improve outcomes after traumatic injury.
The Navedo lab studies how calcium signals (local, global, and everything in between) regulate excitation-contraction, and how diabetes leads to serious vascular conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
The Olver lab are establishing how healthy eating and regular physical activity can prevent vascular disease and related cognitive impairment.
The Tykocki lab study bladder muscle, nerves, blood vessels, and urothelium to help understand the sensation of bladder fullness. They want to know why you feel the need to go.
The Wenceslau lab is trying to understand the crosstalk between the cardiovascular and immune systems, and questions how impaired signaling between these systems leads to vascular disease.
Carl White is based at the Rosalind Frankling University of Medicine and Science. Carl and his team are exploring how obesity leads to blood vessel dysfunction.
The Machin lab is based at University of New Mexico School of Medicine and studies the influence of aging and lifestyle on the development of cardiovascular disease.
Funding
Our research has been generously supported by charitable funding from the British Heart Foundation and Wellcome Trust. Without this support, VasoTracker would not have been possible.
Contact Us
For help, advice, or to get involved, send an email to vasotracker@gmail.com or fill in the form below.