EXPRESS: Improving physiological monitoring and reporting standards in preclinical stroke research

Physiological factors, such as cerebral blood flow, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature are critical determinants of ischemic stroke pathophysiology, infarct development, and overall outcomes, and vice versa. However, despite long-standing guidelines recommending rigorous monitoring of key physiological factors, this aspect is not always incorporated into experimental designs and is generally underreported. Further, even when collected it is not always clear whether the data are integrated into the interpretation of results, potentially affecting translation. This review outlines the importance of monitoring, reporting and interpreting key physiological parameters in experimental stroke models, including the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, metabolism, temperature, circadian rhythm and intracranial pressure. Our aim is to provide researchers with an understanding of 1) different aspects of physiology that can affect experimental outcomes; 2) why and when it is important to monitor animal physiology in the context of ischemic stroke; 3) potential options for monitoring equipment and procedures; and 4) why accurate and transparent reporting and deliberate incorporation of physiological data into interpretation will enhance experimental rigor and strengthen future translational outcomes.