Subvenciones del NIH NS038079 (MSB y JCB), de Subvenciones del NIH AG032518 (MSB y JCB), Estado de Nueva York CoRe 19.772 (MSB y JCB), NIH NS069537 (IRA) y NIH NS053059 (IRA).

<ol>
	<li>Anderson, K. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Targeting+recovery:+priorities+of+the+spinal+cord-injured+population.">Targeting recovery: priorities of the spinal cord-injured population.</a> J Neurotrauma. 21 (10), 1371-1383 (2004).</li><li>Anderson, K. D., Sharp, K. G., Steward, O. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Bilateral+cervical+contusion+spinal+cord+injury+in+rats.">Bilateral cervical contusion spinal cord injury in rats.</a> Exp. Neurol. 220 (1), 9-22 (2009).</li><li>Ballermann, M., Metz, G. A., McKenna, J. E., Klassen, F., Whishaw, Q. I. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+pasta+matrix+reaching+task:+a+simple+test+for+measuring+skilled+reaching+distance,+direction,+and+dexterity+in+rats.">The pasta matrix reaching task: a simple test for measuring skilled reaching distance, direction, and dexterity in rats.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 106, 39-45 (2001).</li><li>Bertelli, J. A., Mira, J. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Behavioral+evaluating+methods+in+the+objective+clinical+assessment+of+motor+function+after+experimental+brachial+plexus+reconstruction+in+the+rat.">Behavioral evaluating methods in the objective clinical assessment of motor function after experimental brachial plexus reconstruction in the rat.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 46, (1993).</li><li>Gensel, J. C., Tovar, C. A., Hamers, F. P., Deibert, R. J., Beattie, M. S., Bresnahan, J. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Behavioral+and+histological+characterization+of+unilateral+cervical+spinal+cord+contusion+injury+in+rats.">Behavioral and histological characterization of unilateral cervical spinal cord contusion injury in rats.</a> J Neurotrauma. 23, 36-54 (2006).</li><li>Girgis, J., Merrett, D., Kirkland, S., Metz, G. A., Verge, V., Fouad, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Reaching+training+in+rats+with+spinal+cord+injury+promotes+plasticity+and+task+specific+recovery.">Reaching training in rats with spinal cord injury promotes plasticity and task specific recovery.</a> Brain. 130 (PT 11), 2993-3003 (2007).</li><li>Metz, G. A., Whishaw, I. Q. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Skilled+reaching+an+action+pattern:+stability+in+rat+(Rattus+norvegicus)+grasping+movements+as+a+function+of+changing+food+pellet+size.">Skilled reaching an action pattern: stability in rat (Rattus norvegicus) grasping movements as a function of changing food pellet size.</a> Behav Brain Res. 116 (2), 111-122 (2000).</li><li>Montoya, C. P., Campbell-Hope, L. J., Pemberton, K. D., Dunnett, S. B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+"staircase+test":+a+measure+of+independent+forelimb+reaching+and+grasping+abilities+in+rats.">The "staircase test": a measure of independent forelimb reaching and grasping abilities in rats.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 36 (2-3), 219-228 (1991).</li><li>Pearse, D. D., Lo, T. P. J. r., Cho, K. S., Lynch, M. P., Garg, M. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Histopathological+and+behavioral+characterization+of+a+novel+cervical+spinal+cord+displacement+contusion+injury+in+the+rat.">Histopathological and behavioral characterization of a novel cervical spinal cord displacement contusion injury in the rat.</a> J Neurotrauma. 22 (6), 680-702 (2005).</li><li>Whishaw, I. Q., Pellis, S. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+structure+of+skilled+forelimb+reaching+in+the+rat:+a+proximally+driven+movement+with+a+single+distal+rotatory+component.">The structure of skilled forelimb reaching in the rat: a proximally driven movement with a single distal rotatory component.</a> Behav. Brain Res. 41 (1), 49-59 (1990).</li></ol>

La escala de Irvine, Beatties Bresnahan y miembro anterior (IBB) es una escala ordinal de 10 puntos de la progresión de la recuperación de extremidad anterior. El IBB análisis muchas características de uso extremidad anterior proximal y distal en el consumo de dos piezas de cereal todo el conjunto de la tarea, una esférica y un cereal en forma de rosquilla. Videos de animales que se alimentan de los cereales se evalúan los comportamientos extremidad anterior más común (incluyendo la posición de las articulaciones, soporte de objetos, el movimiento y la técnica de agarrar dígitos) que se utiliza tanto para las formas y entonces una puntuación de IBB se asigna sobre la base de una combinación de estos comportamientos seleccionados para representar a la mayor cantidad de recuperación de extremidad anterior. Evaluaciones sólo se debe hacer con los cereales que son de un tamaño uniforme y forma, por lo que los animales no debe ser anotado al comer pedazos de cereal. Los animales deben cumplir con todas las conductas que describen cada punto o que el animal se anotó el punto más cercano del déficit. El IBB fue creado para la evaluación de la recuperación de extremidad anterior siguiente inducida experimentalmente cervical SCI. Los primeros estudios en nuestro laboratorio encontró que, al igual que con otras pruebas de comportamiento, la recuperación evaluó mediante la puntuación de IBB es sensible a la gravedad de la lesión. El uso de la IBB no puede limitarse a SCI cervical, pero también puede ser adecuado para otras formas de lesión de los nervios centrales y periféricos que afectan la función de miembro superior adecuada.

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<td>Froot Loops</td>
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Diameter: ~ 81 mm</td>
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<td>Herseys Co.</td>
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<td>Spherical-shaped cereal Available in: USA 
Diameter: ~ 63 mm</td>
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a novel method for assessing proximal and distal forelimb function in the rat: the irvine, beatties and bresnahan (ibb) forelimb scale

Varios modelos experimentales de lesión cervical de la médula espinal (SCI) se han desarrollado recientemente para evaluar las consecuencias del daño a este nivel de la médula espinal (Pearse et al., 2005, Gensel et al., 2006, Anderson et al., 2009) , como la mayoría de las ciencias humanas se producen aquí (Young, 2010; www.sci-info-pages.com). Déficits conductuales incluyen la pérdida de la función de miembro superior debido a los daños de la sustancia blanca que afecta tanto a motor descendente y ascendente sistemas sensoriales, y la materia gris que contiene los circuitos segmentaria para el procesamiento de la información sensorial y la salida del motor de la extremidad anterior. Además, una prioridad clave para los pacientes humanos con cáncer cervical SCI es la restauración de la función de la mano / brazo (Anderson, 2004). Por lo tanto, las medidas de resultado que evaluar la función del miembro anterior proximal y distal se necesitan. Aunque hay varios ensayos de comportamiento que son sensibles a los diferentes aspectos de la recuperación de extremidad anterior en modelos experimentales de cáncer cervical SCI (Girgis et al., 2007, Gensel et al., 2006, Ballerman et al., 2001, Metz y Whishaw, 2000, Bertelli y Mira, 1993, Montoya et al., 1991, Whishaw y Pellis, 1990), algunas técnicas proporcionan información detallada sobre la recuperación del control motor fino y el movimiento dígitos. La técnica de medición actual, el Irvine, Beatties y Bresnahan escala miembro anterior (IBB), puede detectar la recuperación de la función del miembro anterior proximal y distal, incluidos los movimientos dígitos en un comportamiento natural que no requiere una amplia formación o la privación para aumentar la motivación. El IBB se generó mediante la observación de la recuperación después de una SCI unilateral C6, y consiste en la grabación de vídeo de los animales que comen dos cereales de diferente forma (esférica y donut) de un tamaño consistente. Estos videos se utilizaron para evaluar las características del uso de miembro superior, tales como la posición común, soporte de objetos, el movimiento de cifras y de la técnica de agarre. El IBB, al igual que otras tareas conductuales extremidad anterior, muestra un patrón consistente de recuperación que es sensible a la gravedad de la lesión. Además, la escala de IBB podrían ser utilizados para evaluar la recuperación después de otros tipos de lesiones que la función de impacto patas delanteras normales.

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about A Novel Method for Assessing Proximal and Distal Forelimb Function in the Rat: the Irvine, Beatties and Bresnahan IBB Forelimb Scale at JoVE.com

A Novel Method for Assessing Proximal and Distal Forelimb Function in the Rat: the Irvine, Beatties and Bresnahan IBB Forelimb Scale

Aquí se describe un ensayo de comportamiento de roedores que pueden detectar la recuperación de la función del miembro anterior proximal y distal, incluidos los movimientos dígitos en un comportamiento natural que no requiere una amplia formación o la privación para aumentar la motivación.

Un nuevo método para evaluar la función Miembro Anterior proximal y distal de la rata: el Irvine, Beatties y Bresnahan (IBB) Escala Miembro Anterior

Several experimental models of cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) have been developed recently to assess the consequences of damage to this level of the ...

a-novel-method-for-assessing-proximal-distal-forelimb-function-rat

Research

JoVE Journal

Neuroscience

A Novel Method for Assessing Proximal and Distal Forelimb Function in the Rat: the Irvine, Beatties and Bresnahan (IBB) Forelimb Scale

19.6K vistas.  University of California, San Francisco. Aquí se describe un ensayo de comportamiento de roedores que pueden detectar la recuperación de la función del miembro anterior proximal y distal, incluidos los movimientos dígitos en un comportamiento natural que no requiere una amplia formación o la privación para aumentar la motivación.

Video: A Novel Method for Assessing Proximal and Distal Forelimb Function in the Rat: the Irvine, Beatties and Bresnahan IBB Forelimb Scale

Novel Apparatus and Method for Drug Reinforcement

Animal models of reinforcement have proven to be useful for understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying drug addiction. Operant drug self-administration and conditioned place preference (CPP) procedures are expansively used in animal research to model various components of drug reinforcement, consumption, and addiction in humans. For this study, we used a novel approach to studying drug reinforcement in rats by combining traditional CPP and self-administration methodologies. We assembled an apparatus using two Med Associate operant chambers, sensory stimuli, and a Plexiglas-constructed neutral zone. These modifications allowed our experiments to encompass motivational aspects of drug intake through self-administration and drug-free assessment of drug/cue conditioning strength with the CPP test. In our experiments, rats self-administered cocaine (0.75 mg/kg/inj, i.v.) during either four (e.g., the "short-term") or eight (e.g., the "long-term") alternating-day sessions in an operant environment containing distinctive sensory cues (e.g., olfactory and visual). On the alternate days, in the other (differently-cued) operant environment, saline was available for self-infusion (0.1 ml, i.v.). Twenty-four hours after the last self-administration/cue-pairing session, a CPP test was conducted. Consistent with typical CPP findings, there was a significant preference for the chamber associated with cocaine self-administration. In addition, in animals undergoing the long-term experiment, a significant positive correlation between CPP magnitude and the number of cocaine-reinforced lever responses. In conclusion, this apparatus and approach is time and cost effective, can be used to examine a wide array of topics pertaining to drug abuse, and provides more flexibility in experimental design than CPP or self-administration methods alone.

Operant drug self-administration and conditioned place preference (CPP) procedures are expansively used in research to model various components of drug reinforcement, consumption, and addiction in humans. In this report, we combined traditional CPP and self-administration methods as a novel approach to studying drug reinforcement and addiction in rats.

Novela Aparato y método para el fortalecimiento de Drogas

Animal models of reinforcement have proven to be useful for understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying drug addiction.  Operant drug ...

Investigación

Neurociencias

The Vermicelli and Capellini Handling Tests: Simple quantitative measures of dexterous forepaw function in rats and mice

Previous characterizations of rodent eating behavior have revealed that they use coordinated forepaw movements to manipulate food pieces. We have extended upon this work to develop a simple quantitative measure of forepaw dexterity that is sensitive to lateralized impairments and age-dependent changes. Rodents learn skillful forepaw and digit movements to manage thin pasta pieces, which they eagerly consume. We have previously described methods for quantifying vermicelli handling in rats and showed that the measures are very sensitive to forelimb impairments resulting from unilateral ischemic lesions, middle cerebral artery occlusions and unilateral striatal dopamine depletion [Allred, R.P., Adkins, D.L., Woodlee, M.T., Husbands, L.C., Maldonado M.A., Kane, J.R., Schallert, T. &amp; Jones, T.A. The Vermicelli Handling Test: a simple quantitative measure of dexterous forepaw function in rats. J. Neurosci. Methods 170, 229-244 (2008)]. Here we present a more detailed protocol for this test in rats and compare it with a newly developed version for mice, the Capellini Handling Test. Rats and mice are videotaped while handling short lengths of uncooked vermicelli or capellini pasta, respectively, with a camera positioned to optimize the view of paw movements. Slow motion video playback allows for the identification of forepaw adjustments, defined as any distinct removal and replacement of the paw, or of any number of digits, on the pasta piece after eating commences. Forepaw adjustments per piece are averaged over trials per each testing session. Repeated testing permits sensitive quantitative analysis of changes in forepaw dexterity over time. Protocols for pre-testing habituation and handling practice, as well as procedures for characterizing atypical handling patterns, are described. Because rats and mice perform the pasta handling tests slightly differently, species-specific differences in administration and scoring of these tests are highlighted. All animal use was in accordance with protocols approved by the University of Texas at Austin Animal Care and Use Committee.

The Vermicelli and Capellini Handling Tests of forepaw dexterity take advantage of the natural inclination of rodents to manipulate food items using skillful forepaw and digit movements. Animals are videotaped while handling short strands of uncooked dry pasta. Slow motion video playback allows for the quantification of forepaw adjustments.

El grano y Pruebas de Manejo de Capellini: Simple medidas cuantitativas de la función de las patas delanteras diestro en ratas y ratones

Previous characterizations of rodent eating behavior have revealed that they use coordinated forepaw movements to manipulate food pieces. We have extended ...

Cryopreservation of Cortical Tissue Blocks for the Generation of Highly Enriched Neuronal Cultures

In this study, we outline a standardized protocol for the successful cryopreservation and thawing of cortical brain tissue blocks to generate highly enriched neuronal cultures. For this protocol the freezing medium used is 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) diluted in Hank's Buffered Salt Solution (HBSS). Blocks of cortical tissue are transferred to cryovials containing the freezing medium and slowly frozen at -1&deg;C/min in a rate-controlled freezing container. Post-thaw processing and dissociation of frozen tissue blocks consistently produced neuronal-enriched cultures which exhibited rapid neuritic growth during the first 5 days in culture and significant expansion of the neuronal network within 10 days. Immunocytochemical staining with the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and the neuronal marker beta-tubulin class III, revealed high numbers of neurons and astrocytes in the cultures. Generation of neural precursor cell cultures after tissue block dissociation resulted in rapidly expanding neurospheres, which produced large numbers of neurons and astrocytes under differentiating conditions. This simple cryopreservation protocol allows for the rapid, efficient, and inexpensive preservation of cortical brain tissue blocks, which grants increased flexibility for later generation of neuronal, astrocyte, and neuronal precursor cell cultures.

Here, we describe a method for efficient cryopreservation and thawing of cortical brain tissue blocks to generate highly enriched neuronal cultures. This simple protocol provides flexibility for later generation of neuronal, astrocyte, and neuronal precursor cell cultures.

La criopreservación de tejido cortical Bloques para la generación de cultivos neuronales altamente enriquecido

In this study, we outline a standardized protocol for the successful cryopreservation and thawing of cortical brain tissue blocks to generate highly ...

Recording Large-scale Neuronal Ensembles with Silicon Probes in the Anesthetized Rat

Large scale electrophysiological recordings from neuronal ensembles offer the opportunity to investigate how the brain orchestrates the wide variety of behaviors from the spiking activity of its neurons. One of the most effective methods to monitor spiking activity from a large number of neurons in multiple local neuronal circuits simultaneously is by using silicon electrode arrays1-3.
Action potentials produce large transmembrane voltage changes in the vicinity of cell somata. These output signals can be measured by placing a conductor in close proximity of a neuron. If there are many active (spiking) neurons in the vicinity of the tip, the electrode records combined signal from all of them, where contribution of a single neuron is weighted by its 'electrical distance'. Silicon probes are ideal recording electrodes to monitor multiple neurons because of a large number of recording sites (+64) and a small volume. Furthermore, multiple sites can be arranged over a distance of millimeters, thus allowing for the simultaneous recordings of neuronal activity in the various cortical layers or in multiple cortical columns (Fig. 1). Importantly, the geometrically precise distribution of the recording sites also allows for the determination of the spatial relationship of the isolated single neurons4. Here, we describe an acute, large-scale neuronal recording from the left and right forelimb somatosensory cortex simultaneously in an anesthetized rat with silicon probes (Fig. 2).

Extracellular recordings of neuronal activity using silicon probes in the anesthetized rat will be described. This technique allows information to be obtained across multiple brain areas from more than 100 neurons simultaneously. It provides information with single cell resolution about neuronal ensembles dynamics in multiple local circuits.

Grabación a gran escala conjuntos neuronales con sondas de silicona en la rata anestesiada

Large scale electrophysiological recordings from neuronal ensembles offer the opportunity to investigate how the brain orchestrates the wide variety of ...

Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging

The study of complex computational systems is facilitated by network maps, such as circuit diagrams. Such mapping is particularly informative when studying the brain, as the functional role that a brain area fulfills may be largely defined by its connections to other brain areas. In this report, we describe a novel, non-invasive approach for relating brain structure and function using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This approach, a combination of structural imaging of long-range fiber connections and functional imaging data, is illustrated in two distinct cognitive domains, visual attention and face perception. Structural imaging is performed with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and fiber tractography, which track the diffusion of water molecules along white-matter fiber tracts in the brain (Figure 1). By visualizing these fiber tracts, we are able to investigate the long-range connective architecture of the brain. The results compare favorably with one of the most widely-used techniques in DWI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). DTI is unable to resolve complex configurations of fiber tracts, limiting its utility for constructing detailed, anatomically-informed models of brain function. In contrast, our analyses reproduce known neuroanatomy with precision and accuracy. This advantage is partly due to data acquisition procedures: while many DTI protocols measure diffusion in a small number of directions (e.g., 6 or 12), we employ a diffusion spectrum imaging (DSI)1, 2 protocol which assesses diffusion in 257 directions and at a range of magnetic gradient strengths. Moreover, DSI data allow us to use more sophisticated methods for reconstructing acquired data. In two experiments (visual attention and face perception), tractography reveals that co-active areas of the human brain are anatomically connected, supporting extant hypotheses that they form functional networks. DWI allows us to create a "circuit diagram" and reproduce it on an individual-subject basis, for the purpose of monitoring task-relevant brain activity in networks of interest.

We describe a novel approach for simultaneous analysis of brain function and structure using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We assess brain structure with high-resolution diffusion-weighted imaging and white-matter fiber tractography. Unlike standard structural MRI, these techniques allow us to directly relate anatomical connectivity to functional properties of brain networks.

Co-análisis de la estructura y función cerebral mediante resonancia magnética funcional y la difusión de imágenes ponderado

The study of complex computational systems is facilitated by network maps, such as circuit diagrams. Such mapping is particularly informative when ...

A Visual Description of the Dissection of the Cerebral Surface Vasculature and Associated Meninges and the Choroid Plexus from Rat Brain

This video presentation was created to show a method of harvesting the two most important highly vascular structures, not residing within the brain proper, that support forebrain function. They are the cerebral surface (superficial) vasculature along with associated meninges (MAV) and the choroid plexus which are necessary for cerebral blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homeostasis. The tissue harvested is suitable for biochemical and physiological analysis, and the MAV has been shown to be sensitive to damage produced by amphetamine and hyperthermia 1,2. As well, the major and minor cerebral vasculatures harvested in MAV are of potentially high interest when investigating concussive types of head trauma. The MAV dissected in this presentation consists of the pial and some of the arachnoid membrane (less dura) of the meninges and the major and minor cerebral surface vasculature. The choroid plexus dissected is the structure that resides in the lateral ventricles as described by Oldfield and McKinley3,4,5,6. The methods used for harvesting these two tissues also facilitate the harvesting of regional cortical tissue devoid of meninges and larger cerebral surface vasculature, and is compatible with harvesting other brain tissues such as striatum, hypothalamus, hippocampus, etc. The dissection of the two tissues takes from 5 to 10 min total. The gene expression levels for the dissected MAV and choroid plexus, as shown and described in this presentation can be found at GSE23093 (MAV) and GSE29733 (choroid plexus) at the NCBI GEO repository. This data has been, and is being, used to help further understand the functioning of the MAV and choroid plexus and how neurotoxic events such as severe hyperthermia and AMPH adversely affect their function.

This video presentation shows a method of harvesting the two most important highly vascular structures that support forebrain function. They are the cerebral surface (superficial) vasculature along with associated meninges (MAV) and the choroid plexus which are necessary for cerebral blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homeostasis.

Una descripción visual de la disección de la vasculatura cerebral superficial y las meninges asociada y el plexo coroideo del cerebro de rata

This video presentation was created to show a method of harvesting the two most important highly vascular structures, not residing within the brain ...

Imaging Serotonergic Fibers in the Mouse Spinal Cord Using the CLARITY/CUBIC Technique

Long descending fibers to the spinal cord are essential for locomotion, pain perception, and other behaviors. The fiber termination pattern in the spinal cord of the majority of these fiber systems have not been thoroughly investigated in any species. Serotonergic fibers, which project to the spinal cord, have been studied in rats and opossums on histological sections and their functional significance has been deduced based on their fiber termination pattern in the spinal cord. With the development of CLARITY and CUBIC techniques, it is possible to investigate this fiber system and its distribution in the spinal cord, which is likely to reveal previously unknown features of serotonergic supraspinal pathways. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for imaging the serotonergic fibers in the mouse spinal cord using the combined CLARITY and CUBIC techniques. The method involves perfusion of a mouse with a hydrogel solution and clarification of the tissue with a combination of clearing reagents. Spinal cord tissue was cleared in just under two weeks, and the subsequent immunofluorescent staining against serotonin was completed in less than ten days. With a multi-photon fluorescent microscope, the tissue was scanned and a 3D image was reconstructed using Osirix software.

Supraspinal projections are important for pain perception and other behaviors, and serotonergic fibers are one of these fiber systems. The present study focused on the application of the combined CLARITY/CUBIC protocol to the mouse spinal cord in order to investigate the termination of these serotonergic fibers.

Las fibras serotoninérgicos proyección de imagen en la médula espinal de ratón El uso de la claridad / Técnica CÚBICO

Long descending fibers to the spinal cord are essential for locomotion, pain perception, and other behaviors. The fiber termination pattern in the spinal ...

3D Kinematic Analysis for the Functional Evaluation in the Rat Model of Sciatic Nerve Crush Injury

Compared to the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI), kinematic analysis is a more reliable and sensitive method for performing functional evaluations of sciatic nerve injury rodent models. In this protocol, we describe a novel kinematic analysis method that uses a three-dimensional (3D) motion capture apparatus for functional evaluations using a rat sciatic nerve crush injury model. First, the rat is familiarized with treadmill walking. Markers are then attached to the designated bone landmarks and the rat is made to walk on the treadmill at the desired speed. Meanwhile, the posterior limb movements of the rat are recorded using four cameras. Depending on the software used, marker tracings are created using both automatic and manual modes and the desired data are produced after subtle adjustments. This method of kinematic analysis, which uses a 3D motion capture apparatus, offers numerous advantages, including superior precision and accuracy. Many more parameters can be investigated during the comprehensive functional evaluations. This method has several shortcomings that require consideration: The system is expensive, can be complicated to operate, and may produce data deviations due to skin shifting. Nevertheless, kinematic analysis using a 3D motion capture apparatus is useful for performing functional anterior and posterior limb evaluations. In the future, this method may become increasingly useful for generating accurate assessments of various traumas and diseases.

We introduce a kinematic analysis method that uses a three-dimensional motion capture apparatus containing four cameras and data processing software for performing functional evaluations during fundamental research involving rodent models.

Análisis cinemático 3D para la evaluación funcional en el modelo de rata de lesión de aplastamiento de nervios ciáticos

Compared to the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI), kinematic analysis is a more reliable and sensitive method for performing functional evaluations of ...

A Hydrophobic Tissue Clearing Method for Rat Brain Tissue

Hydrophobic tissue clearing methods are easily adjustable, fast, and low-cost procedures that allows for the study of a molecule of interest in unaltered tissue samples. Traditional immunolabeling procedures require cutting the sample into thin sections, which restricts the ability to label and examine intact structures. However, if brain tissue can remain intact during processing, structures and circuits can remain intact for the analysis. Previously established clearing methods take significant time to completely clear the tissue, and the harsh chemicals can often damage sensitive antibodies. The iDISCO method quickly and completely clears tissue, is compatible with many antibodies, and requires no special lab equipment. This technique was initially validated for the use in mice tissue, but the current protocol adapts this method to image hemispheres of control and transgenic rat brains. In addition to this, the present protocol also makes several adjustments to preexisting protocol to provide clearer images with less background staining. Antibodies for Iba-1 and tyrosine hydroxylase were validated in the HIV-1 transgenic rat and in F344/N control rats using the present hydrophobic tissue clearing method. The brain is an interwoven network, where structures work together more often than separately of one another. Analyzing the brain as a whole system as opposed to a combination of individual pieces is the greatest benefit of this whole brain clearing method.

Here we present a hydrophobic tissue clearing method that allows for the viewing of target molecules as part of intact brain structures. This technique has now been validated for F344/N control and HIV-1 transgenic rats of both sexes.

Un método de limpieza de tejido hidrófobo para el tejido cerebral de rata

Hydrophobic tissue clearing methods are easily adjustable, fast, and low-cost procedures that allows for the study of a molecule of interest in unaltered ...

Establishment of a Rat Model of Superior Sagittal-Sinus Occlusion via a Thread-Embolism Method

The mechanisms contributing to the natural onset of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) are mostly unknown, and a variety of uncontrollable factors are involved in the course of the disease, resulting in great limitations in clinical research. Therefore, the establishment of stable CVST animal models that can standardize a variety of uncontrollable confounding factors have helped to circumvent shortcomings in clinical research. In recent decades, a variety of CVST animal models have been constructed, but the results based on these models have been inconsistent and incomplete. Hence, in order to further explore the pathophysiological mechanisms of CVST, it is necessary to establish a novel and highly compatible animal model, which has important practical value and scientific significance for the diagnosis and treatment of CVST. In the present study, a novel Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model of superior sagittal sinus (SSS) thrombosis was established via a thread-embolization method, and the stability and reliability of the model were verified. Additionally, we evaluated changes in cerebral venous blood flow in rats after the formation of CVST. Collectively, the SD-rat SSS-thrombosis model represents a novel CVST animal model that is easily established, minimizes trauma, yields good stability, and allows for accurately controlling ischemic timing and location.

Here, we establish a novel Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model of superior sagittal sinus (SSS) thrombosis via a thread-embolization method, and the stability and reliability of the model were verified.

Establecimiento De Un Modelo De Rata De La Oclusión Superior Sagital-Seno A Través De Un Método De Hilo-Embolia

The mechanisms contributing to the natural onset of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) are mostly unknown, and a variety of uncontrollable factors ...