Clinical testing and spinal cord removal in a mouse model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • René Günther - , University Medical Center Göttingen (Author)
  • Martin Suhr - (Author)
  • Jan C Koch - (Author)
  • Mathias Bähr - (Author)
  • Paul Lingor - (Author)
  • Lars Tönges - (Author)

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder resulting in progressive degeneration of motoneurons. Peak of onset is around 60 years for the sporadic disease and around 50 years for the familial disease. Due to its progressive course, 50% of the patients die within 30 months of symptom onset. In order to evaluate novel treatment options for this disease, genetic mouse models of ALS have been generated based on human familial mutations in the SOD gene, such as the SOD1 (G93A) mutation. Most important aspects that have to be evaluated in the model are overall survival, clinical course and motor function. Here, we demonstrate the clinical evaluation, show the conduction of two behavioural motor tests and provide quantitative scoring systems for all parameters. Because an in depth analysis of the ALS mouse model usually requires an immunohistochemical examination of the spinal cord, we demonstrate its preparation in detail applying the dorsal laminectomy method. Exemplary histological findings are demonstrated. The comprehensive application of the depicted examination methods in studies on the mouse model of ALS will enable the researcher to reliably test future therapeutic options which can provide a basis for later human clinical trials.

Details

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of visualized experiments : JoVE
Issue number61
Publication statusPublished - 17 Mar 2012
Peer-reviewedYes
Externally publishedYes

External IDs

PubMedCentral PMC3415170
Scopus 84862596869

Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals

Keywords

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/metabolism, Animals, Disease Models, Animal, Mice, Spinal Cord/metabolism