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Updated: Feb 18, 2026
Sagittal Plane Kinematic Gait Analysis in C57BL/6 Mice Subjected to MOG35-55 Induced Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Published on: November 4, 2017
Sagittal Plane Kinematic Gait Analysis in C57BL/6 Mice Subjected to MOG35-55 Induced Experimental Autoimmune
Maximillian Dj Fiander1, Matthew Aj Chedrawe1, Anna-Claire Lamport1
1Pharmacology, Dalhousie University.
Abstract:
Kinematic gait analysis in the sagittal plane has frequently been used to characterize motor deficits in multiple sclerosis (MS). We describe the application of these techniques to identify gait deficits in a mouse model of MS, known as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Paralysis and motor deficits in mice subjected to EAE are typically assessed using a clinical scoring scale. However, this scale yields only ordinal data that provides little information about the precise nature of the motor deficits. EAE disease severity has also been assessed by rotarod performance, which provides a measure of general motor coordination. By contrast, kinematic gait analysis of the hind limb in the sagittal plane generates highly precise information about how movement is impaired. To perform this procedure, reflective markers are placed on a hind limb to detect joint movement while a mouse is walking on a treadmill. Motion analysis software is used to measure movement of the markers during walking. Kinematic gait parameters are then derived from the resultant data. We show how these gait parameters can be used to quantify impaired movements of the hip, knee, and ankle joints in EAE. These techniques may be used to better understand disease mechanisms and identify potential treatments for MS and other neurodegenerative disorders that impair mobility.
Insights
Kinematic gait analysis precisely quantifies hind limb movement deficits in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS), known as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). This method offers superior detail compared to traditional scoring scales for understanding motor impairments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Animal Models
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disorder impacting mobility.
- Current assessment methods for MS mouse models, like clinical scoring and rotarod tests, offer limited precision.
- Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a common mouse model for MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply kinematic gait analysis in the sagittal plane to identify and quantify gait deficits in EAE mice.
- To demonstrate the utility of precise kinematic data over traditional ordinal scales for assessing motor impairment.
Main Methods:
- Reflective markers were placed on the hind limbs of EAE mice.
- Mice walked on a treadmill while their movements were captured by motion analysis software.
- Kinematic gait parameters were derived from marker movement data to analyze joint function (hip, knee, ankle).
Main Results:
- Kinematic gait analysis successfully quantified impaired hip, knee, and ankle joint movements in EAE mice.
- This technique provides detailed, precise data on motor deficits, unlike ordinal clinical scales.
- The study established a method for objective, quantitative assessment of gait impairment in EAE.
Conclusions:
- Kinematic gait analysis is a powerful tool for characterizing motor deficits in EAE mouse models.
- These techniques can enhance understanding of MS disease mechanisms and aid in developing new therapeutic strategies.
- Precise gait analysis may be applicable to other neurodegenerative disorders affecting mobility.
