Neural Regeneration Research ›› 2014, Vol. 9 ›› Issue (5): 453-455.doi: 10.4103/1673-5374.130052

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Technical comments on rodent spinal cord injuries models

Zoe Zhang1, Yi Ping Zhang2, Lisa B. E. Shields2, Christopher B. Shields2     

  1. 1 Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
    2 Norton Neuroscience Institute, Norton Healthcare, Louisville, KY 40202, USA  
  • Received:2014-02-18 Online:2014-03-12 Published:2014-03-12

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Abstract:

Animal models are required to investigate mechanisms of spinal cord injuries (SCI) and to gain insight into potential treatments. This article describes several experimental animal models that mimic the clinical picture of SCI. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are compared.  Common technical errors in creating experimental SCI are reviewed including poor vertebral stabilization and variability in segmental location. The creation of reliable models of SCI is essential to avoid erroneous outcomes in the laboratory. Prevention of such errors in experimental rodent models may avoid costly and time-consuming clinical trials from being performed.