Chemical-induced lesion models of Parkinson's Disease (PD) reproduce several of the pathological and behavioral symptoms of the human disease in rodents. Creative Biolabs' PD platform has successfully established various rodent PD models using different neurotoxins/chemicals, including MPTP and 6-OHDA. Moreover, we can customize the study protocols and endpoints to meet your unique needs.
Introduction of Parkinson's Disease
PD is a long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the motor system. The most important pathological hallmark of PD is the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) and the consequent reduction of dopamine (DA) in the striatum. Lewy bodies comprised of alpha-synuclein (a-Syn) in substantia nigra are also defining characteristics of PD. Moreover, the pathology of PD can affect other parts of the brain including the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, the nucleus basalis of Meynert, the locus coeruleus, and the hypothalamus. Together, the above pathological alterations form the basis for the development of motor and non-motor symptoms of PD.
Fig.1 A brain without and with Parkinson's Disease compared in Substantia Nigra
Overview of Rodent PD Models
Animal models are essential not only to understand the detailed pathophysiological mechanisms of PD, but also to develop novel therapeutics including pharmaceutical treatments and agents that have neuroprotective effects on PD-related neuronal systems. To date, various PD models have been used, including nonhuman primates, rodents, and invertebrates. The most frequently used animals are rats and mice as they are readily available and easy to handle. These rodent PD models are classified into two types: chemical/neurotoxin-induced PD models and transgenic/knock-out models.
Models Available
Creative Biolabs utilizes two typically used neurotoxins for producing in vivo models of PD: 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), and 1-methyl 4-phenyltetrahydropyridine (MPTP).
The MPTP is commonly used since it causes a selective loss of dopaminergic neurons and induces typical PD-like symptoms. At Creative Biolabs, we offer acute, subacute, and chronic versions of MPTP mouse models to our clients.
The neurotoxin 6-OHDA is widely used to induce depletion of dopaminergic neurons in PD models. This model is established by unilateral administration of 6-OHDA into the medial forebrain bundle, leading to a PD-like motor dysfunction.
Fig.2 Pathogenesis of neuronal dysfunction produced by neurotoxins (i.e. MPTP, 6-OHDA) that affect dopamine neurons. (Beal, 2001)
The following list of rodent neurological disease models is available at Creative Biolabs:
At Creative Biolabs, you will find the most comprehensive preclinical services at the most competitive prices. In addition to the models described above, we offer turn-key or a la carte services customized to our client's needs. If you are interested in any of our services, please send us an inquiry or contact us directly to discuss your specific requirements.
Reference
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