Development of a chronic compression spinal cord injury model in neonatal and adult rats.
Reggie RidlenVictoria MarstersElizabeth ClarkeKristine McGrathCatherine A GorriePublished in: Animal models and experimental medicine (2024)
The versatility of this model lies in its adaptability to different ages of rats, offering a cost-effective and reproducible means to induce graded injuries. Moreover, behavioral assessments demonstrated observable hindlimb function, validating the model's utility for studying functional outcomes. Although challenges persist, particularly in accounting for spinal column growth in neonatal animals, this model fills a crucial gap in pediatric NTSCI research. By providing a platform to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms and test potential treatments, it offers promising avenues for advancing our understanding and management of pediatric NTSCI.