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Updated: Apr 20, 2026
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Development of a Rabbit Chronic-Like Rotator Cuff Injury Model for Study of Fibrosis and Muscular Fatty Degeneration
Published on: March 31, 2023
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Animal model for chronic massive rotator cuff tear: behavioural and histologic analysis
N Sevivas1, S C Serra, R Portugal
1Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal, nunosevivas@gmail.com.
Summary
This study optimized a rodent model for massive rotator cuff tears (MRCT), revealing fatty infiltration and functional deficits. This model serves as a valuable preclinical tool for developing new therapies for MRCT.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Massive rotator cuff tears (MRCT) often involve chronic degeneration, complicating surgical repair.
- Developing effective therapies requires animal models that replicate human MRCT hallmarks, including fatty infiltration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize a rodent model for MRCT that accurately reproduces human-like fatty infiltration.
- To characterize the histological and behavioral effects of unilateral and bilateral MRCT in this model.
Main Methods:
- Massive rotator cuff tears involved transecting the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons in Wistar rats.
- Animals were divided into bilateral lesion, unilateral lesion (right or left), and control groups.
- Behavioral analysis (open field, staircase test) and histological examination were performed 16 weeks post-lesion.
Main Results:
- Histology confirmed fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy in injured tendons, with more pronounced changes in the bilateral lesion group.
- Staircase test revealed significant fine motor control impairment in unilaterally and bilaterally lesioned rats compared to controls.
- A trend towards reduced climbing ability was observed with increased lesion severity.
Conclusions:
- A reliable rodent model for MRCT, mimicking key human degenerative changes, has been successfully established.
- This model offers a cost-effective preclinical tool for evaluating tissue-engineered strategies and future therapeutic interventions.
- The model overcomes limitations of previous studies, providing a more robust platform for assessing potential clinical treatments for MRCT.
