Vasquez Pea, N;
(2008)
Behavioural assessment of rats with multiple cervical dorsal root avulsion and their functional recovery after transplant with olfactory ensheathing cells.
Doctoral thesis , UCL (University College London).
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Abstract
Introduction Dorsal root injuries remain a clinical challenge particularly in cases of root avulsion of the brachial plexus. Aims this project aims to design a valid and predictive behavioural instrument to evaluate sensorimotor function after multiple dorsal root avulsion and therapeutic interventions. Materials and methods 36 adult rats were included in the study and categorised in 4 groups of 9 rats each: 3-root lesion, 4-root lesion, 4-root lesion with olfactory ensheathing cells and the control group. The instrument and scoring system was designed based on attributes predictive of sensorimotor function. Attributes included pattern of climbing, vertical successful grasps, faults, posture, and amplitude of movement. Forelimb proprioceptive deficit was tested by allowing rats to climb a frame in three behavioural tests during 3 different times within the first 6 weeks, after the lesion and after OEC transplant. Results Qualitative and statistical analyses clearly identified and underlined differences between the 3-root and the 4-root lesion groups. Further statistical analyses show no behavioural changes over time in the groups with no therapy however, a slight degree of possible adaptation to the type of injury was observed. Furthermore, according to the qualitative observations over time, there was evidence of behavioural improvement in the transplanted group nonetheless this was not statistically significant. Discussion This behavioural assessment method allows quantifying and qualifying the proprioceptive function and recovery from forelimb sensorimotor deficits. Findings from this study will contribute to research on the clinical assessment and treatment of patients with brachial plexus injuries.
| Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Title: | Behavioural assessment of rats with multiple cervical dorsal root avulsion and their functional recovery after transplant with olfactory ensheathing cells |
| Open access status: | An open access version is available from UCL Discovery |
| Language: | English |
| Additional information: | Thesis digitised by ProQuest. |
| UCL classification: | UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences > UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/1567837 |
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