Standardized Post-Mortem Examination and Fixation Procedures for Mutant and Treated Mice
Cristina Antal1,2, Stéphanie Muller1, Olivia Wendling1,3
1Mouse Clinical Institute, Illkirch, France.
Current Protocols in Mouse Biology
|June 13, 2015
Summary
This study details a mouse necropsy protocol for comprehensive anatomical and histological analysis. Proper tissue fixation in formalin is crucial for accurate histopathological evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Laboratory Animal Science
- Histopathology
Background:
- Necropsy is essential for evaluating organ and system health in research mice.
- Accurate histopathological analysis relies on proper tissue preservation.
- Standardized protocols ensure reliable data in mouse studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a detailed procedure for post-mortem examination (necropsy) in mice.
- To outline methods for obtaining a holistic anatomical and histological assessment.
- To emphasize the critical role of tissue fixation in histopathology.
Main Methods:
- Rapid transfer of tissues into a fixative solution, typically neutral buffered formalin.
- Detailed protocols for routine tissue fixation, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
- Strategic planning for histopathological evaluation, including mouse age, gender, cohort size, and controls.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive necropsy procedure ensuring "holistic" organ and system examination.
- Effective tissue preservation through immediate fixation in neutral buffered formalin.
- Established routine methods for histopathological analysis integral to necropsy.
Conclusions:
- The provided protocol facilitates thorough necropsy and histopathological analysis in mice.
- Proper tissue fixation is a fundamental step for accurate diagnostic outcomes.
- Standardized necropsy and fixation methods support robust scientific research in mouse models.
