Ovine model of neuropathic pain for assessing mechanisms of spinal cord stimulation therapy via dorsal horn recordings, von Frey filaments, and gait analysis

Journal of Pain Research, 2018 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S139843 · Published: May 17, 2018

Neurology Pain Management Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This research introduces a sheep model for studying neuropathic pain and the effects of spinal cord stimulation (SCS). The model involves constricting a nerve in the sheep's leg to induce neuropathic pain, while avoiding motor deficits like hoof drop seen in previous models. The study combines behavioral measures, such as von Frey filament thresholds and gait analysis, with electrophysiological measures like dorsal horn recordings, to assess the impact of SCS on neuropathic pain. The goal is to provide a large animal model that allows for testing of clinical-grade SCS hardware and detailed investigation of the mechanisms underlying SCS therapy for neuropathic pain.

Study Duration

1+ Year

Participants

8 adult female Polypay sheep

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Peroneal nerve constriction in sheep produces a reproducible large animal model of persistent neuropathic pain.
2
This approach avoids neurologic deficits in gait that otherwise result from complete sectioning of the nerve.
3
Behavioral measures (von Frey filament response and gait analysis) provide independent assessment of SCS effects.

Research Summary

This study introduces an ovine model of neuropathic pain that allows for the investigation of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) mechanisms through behavioral and electrophysiological measures. The model involves chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the common peroneal nerve (CPN) in sheep, which induces neuropathic pain without motor deficits, enabling the use of gait analysis. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using this model to assess the effects of SCS on tactile hypersensitivity, gait, and dorsal horn neuron activity, suggesting its suitability for testing SCS mechanisms.

Practical Implications

Mechanistic Understanding

The ovine model enables detailed investigation of the mechanisms underlying SCS therapy, including newer stimulation paradigms.

Preclinical Testing

The model provides a testbed for newer SCS technologies and modes of stimulation, facilitating preclinical testing with clinical-grade devices.

Improved Pain Relief

Findings from this model can potentially be translated to improve pain relief in clinical populations by optimizing SCS parameters and devices.

Study Limitations

1
Small number of animals in the principal part of the pilot study.
2
Foregoing of animals representing sham interventions hampers the generalizability of results.
3
Limited conclusions about the impact of SCS on the behavioral findings.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Neurology