Experimental spinal cord injury and behavioral tests in laboratory rats

Heliyon, 2019 · DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01324 · Published: March 4, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) can severely impact body functions and quality of life. Researchers use animal models, especially rats, to test new SCI treatments and understand recovery mechanisms. Selecting the right behavioral test is crucial for assessing motor and sensory recovery after treatment. This review focuses on rat SCI models and commonly used behavioral tests, providing guidelines for SCI research. This review focuses on different SCI rat models and their recovery assessments using different behavioral tests. We also propose some novel behavioral tests to enrich this research.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Laboratory rats

Evidence Level

Review Article

Key Findings

1
The review highlights three main SCI rat models: compression, contusion, and transection, each mimicking different aspects of human SCI and having specific advantages and limitations for research.
2
Various behavioral tests are categorized based on data collection and neurological tracts involved, including motor, locomotor, sensory, and sensorimotor tests, each designed to assess specific recovery aspects.
3
The study emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate behavioral test based on the research question, considering factors like reliability, validation, sensitivity, and the specific neural tracts being investigated.

Research Summary

This review provides a comprehensive overview of experimental SCI rat models and commonly used behavioral tests for assessing recovery. It highlights the advantages and disadvantages of different injury models and behavioral assessments. The authors emphasize the importance of selecting an appropriate injury model and behavioral test based on the specific research question and the need for standardized and validated assessment methods. The review concludes by suggesting the incorporation of new tests and the maintenance of high ethical standards in animal research to advance clinical interventions for SCI.

Practical Implications

Research Guidance

Provides researchers with a guideline for selecting appropriate SCI rat models and behavioral tests.

Translational Research

Facilitates translational research by highlighting models that mimic clinical conditions.

Improved Assessment

Encourages the incorporation of novel behavioral tests to enrich SCI research.

Study Limitations

1
Variability between subjects in injury models.
2
Limitations of individual behavioral tests in assessing specific functions.
3
Ethical considerations in animal research.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury