Protocol to optimize the Rice-Vannucci rat pup model of perinatal asphyxia to ensure predictable hypoxic-ischemic cerebral lesions

Abstract

Summary: The Rice-Vannucci model in rodent pups is subject to substantial loss of animals, result inconsistency, and high lab-to-lab variability in extent and composition of induced injury. This protocol allows for highly predictable and reproducible hypoxic-ischemic cerebral injury lesions in post-natal day 10 Wistar rat pups with no mortality. We describe steps for common carotid artery ligation, brief post-operative normothermia, exposure to hypoxia, and post-hypoxic normothermia. Precise timing and temperature control in each step are crucial for a successful procedure.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Hartman et al.1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Health Sciences
• Model Organisms
• Neuroscience
• Stem Cells