Protocol to develop a preclinical severe contusive-compressive SCI mouse model for translational research
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Complete spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to irreversible neurological damage due to failed neural repair, with no effective therapies currently available. Here, we present a protocol to induce severe contusive-compressive SCI at thoracic T11 level in mouse using the NYU-MASCIS II impactor. We describe steps for performing laminectomy, inducing the injury, and validating it through functional and histological analysis. This protocol replicates key aspects of human secondary injury, making it valuable for preclinical testing of SCI therapies. • Instructions for performing surgery to expose the T11 thoracic spinal segment • Steps for inducing severe contusive-compressive SCI • Guidance on evaluating the functional motor recovery • Procedures for histological analysis of tissue alterations after SCI Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Complete spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to irreversible neurological damage due to failed neural repair, with no effective therapies currently available. Here, we present a protocol to induce severe contusive-compressive SCI at thoracic T11 level in mouse using the NYU-MASCIS II impactor. We describe steps for performing laminectomy, inducing the injury, and validating it through functional and histological analysis. This protocol replicates key aspects of human secondary injury, making it valuable for preclinical testing of SCI therapies.
Source: STAR Protocols
Institutions: University of Verona, University of Milan
Language: English
Topic: Spinal Cord Injury Research
Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,550
Awards: G1995085154, G2959782517, G3323308467
OpenAlex ID: W7117357655