Animal models of axon regeneration after spinal cord injury

Neurosci Bull, 2013 · DOI: 10.1007/s12264-013-1365-4 · Published: August 1, 2013

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

This review discusses various animal models used to study axon regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI). It highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate model based on the research question, considering factors like species (rats vs. mice), strains, and the type of injury model used. The review compares rat and mouse models, noting that rats develop fluid-filled cystic cavities at the injury site, similar to humans, while mice do not. This difference is important when studying scar formation or transplantation strategies. The authors also describe different types of spinal cord injuries including dorsal hemisection, complete transection, dorsal column lesion, and contusion injuries. Each model has its advantages and disadvantages, influencing the type of research questions that can be addressed.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Animal models (rats, mice, cats, pigs, non-human primates)

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Rat models mimic human SCI pathology better due to the formation of cystic cavities, making them suitable for preclinical studies of cellular and pharmacological therapies.
2
Mouse models, particularly with genetic manipulations, offer advantages for mechanistic insights into the cellular and molecular biology of SCI, but strain differences must be considered.
3
Contusion models are clinically relevant but can make it difficult to distinguish between spared and regenerated axons, whereas pyramidotomy models are useful for studying CST sprouting without the influence of a significant glial scar.

Research Summary

This review provides an overview of different animal models used in spinal cord injury research, specifically focusing on axon regeneration. It discusses the pros and cons of each model, including considerations for species, injury type, and experimental goals. The authors emphasize the importance of careful model selection to address specific research questions, highlighting the strengths and limitations of rat, mouse, and large animal models, as well as various injury types like hemisection, transection, contusion, and pyramidotomy. The review also touches on advanced techniques like in vivo imaging, which offers direct visualization of axon regeneration, and the need for appropriate surgical skills and postoperative care when using these models.

Practical Implications

Model Selection

Researchers should carefully select animal models based on their specific research questions, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each model.

Preclinical Testing

Rat models are preferable for preclinical studies that focus on the efficacy of novel cellular and/or pharmacological therapies due to their similarity to human pathology.

Mechanistic Studies

Mouse models, especially with genetic manipulations, are more suitable for gaining mechanistic insights into the cellular and molecular biology of SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Variability between surgeons performing dorsal hemisections can affect outcomes.
2
Complete transection injuries may be too severe to observe axonal growth.
3
Contusion injuries make it difficult to distinguish between spared and regenerated axons.

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