Development of a mouse model of chronic ventral spinal cord compression: Neurobehavioral, radiological, and pathological changes

This study created a mouse model to mimic chronic spinal cord compression, similar to what is seen in humans with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). The goal was to understand the changes that occur in the nervous system, bones, and tissues due to this compression. The researchers used genetically modified mice that develop ectopic bone formation in the spine, leading to gradual compression of the spinal cord. They then observed and measured the effects of this compression on the mice's movement, nerve function, and spinal cord structure over time. The study found that these mice developed walking difficulties and nerve damage similar to humans with OPLL, making this mouse model useful for studying potential treatments for this condition.

• 1
  Enpp1flox/flox/EIIa-Cre mice exhibited a gradual deterioration of compression in the Enpp1flox/flox/EIIa-Cre mice group as they aged, with a rapid progression between 12 and 20 weeks, followed by stabilization.
• 2
  Functional assessments, including the Basso Mouse Scale and inclined plane test, revealed a significant decline in spinal cord function and strength in the Enpp1flox/flox/EIIa-Cre group.
• 3
  Chronic spinal cord compression led to neuronal damage and activated astrocytes and microglia in the gray matter and anterior horn.