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Hindlimb unloading rodent model: technical aspects.
Emily R Morey-Holton1, Ruth K Globus
1Life Sciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California 94035-1000, USA. eholton@mail.arc.nasa.gov
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|March 16, 2002
Summary
The rat hindlimb unloading model, developed by NASA, simulates weightlessness to study musculoskeletal loading. This review details the model's technical aspects for researchers.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Space Medicine
Background:
- The rat hindlimb unloading model simulates weightlessness, a condition relevant to spaceflight.
- It involves elevating rodent hindlimbs to a 30-degree head-down tilt, causing fluid shifts and unloading hindquarter weight-bearing.
- While scientific outcomes are reviewed elsewhere, this focuses on the model's technical execution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive technical guide to the rat hindlimb unloading model.
- To serve as a reference for researchers, manuscript reviewers, and animal care committees.
- To consolidate critical technical considerations for accurate and reproducible research.
Main Methods:
- Detailed history and evolution of the hindlimb unloading technique.
- Technical specifications including unloading angle, housing, and temperature control.
- Adaptation of the model for use in mice.
Main Results:
- Comparison of hindlimb unloading data with actual spaceflight data.
- Discussion of essential technical parameters: age, body weight, and control group necessity.
- Consideration of forelimb tissues as internal controls and optimal experiment duration.
Conclusions:
- This review offers a detailed technical reference for the hindlimb unloading model.
- It addresses practical aspects crucial for experimental design and interpretation.
- Over 800 references are provided for further in-depth study.