Evaluating Mouse Models of Cerebellar Ataxia
Author Information
Author(s): Guyenet Stephan J., Furrer Stephanie A., Damian Vincent M., Baughan Travis D., La Spada Albert R., Garden Gwenn A.
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
The study aims to develop a scoring system to quantify disease severity in mouse models of cerebellar ataxia.
Conclusion
The scoring system effectively discriminates between affected and non-affected mice and quantifies the progression of neurodegenerative disease phenotypes.
Supporting Evidence
- The scoring system includes measures that are sensitive to disease severity.
- Each measure is scored on a scale of 0-3, allowing for detailed assessment.
- The protocol can detect differences in phenotype between strains and over time.
Takeaway
This study created a way to score how sick mice are from a brain disease, helping scientists understand the disease better.
Methodology
The study describes a protocol for scoring disease severity based on four measures: hind limb clasping, ledge test, gait, and kyphosis.
Potential Biases
The experimenter should not know the animal's genotype to prevent bias.
Limitations
Obesity may complicate the interpretation of the results.
Participant Demographics
Transgenic mouse models of spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) were used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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