Focal and restricted traumatic injury models in the rodent brain: limitations, possibilities, and challenges

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterResearchpeer-review

Animal models of traumatic brain injury are primarily utilized for the purpose of either (a) conducting basic research—for instance regarding the neurocognitive organization of the brain or (b) the development and evaluation of therapeutic interventions—such as pharmacological and behavioral methods as well as environmental manipulations. While studies focusing on development of therapeutic methods may primarily call for the use of more “ecologically valid” models, studies of the neurocognitive organization of the brain may primarily benefit from the use of focal and anatomically restricted lesions. The present chapter focuses on such models. The primary focus of the chapter is a model in which the fimbria-fornix is selectively transected and hippocampal function consequently severely impaired. The method of this transection is described, and the neural and functional consequences of the lesion are reviewed. In order to best utilize such focal lesions in the analysis of neurocognitive organization additional methods are needed. These methods include combined and simultaneously inflicted focal lesions as well as the use of both organic and behavioral “challenge” techniques. Such an approach enables a deeper understanding of the mediating mechanisms at the level of anatomical structure and/or neurotransmitter system and prevents premature conclusions regarding the neurocognitive
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAnimal Models of Neurotrauma
EditorsMårten Risling, Johan Davidsson
PublisherSpringer
Publication date2019
Pages19-46
Chapter2
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-4939-9711-4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
SeriesNeuromethods
Number149
ISSN0893-2336

    Research areas

  • Faculty of Social Sciences - Focal lesions, Fimbria-fornix, Hippocampus, Prefrontal cortex, Combined lesions, Neurocognitive organization, Cognitive recovery, Behavioral challenges, Organic challenges, Rat

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