Ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis: a practical guide

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Comparative Medicine
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Osteoporosis is a global health challenge affecting millions, necessitating improved prevention and treatment strategies.
• Animal models are crucial for osteoporosis research, with the ovariectomized (OVX) rat being the most widely utilized.
• Establishing a reliable OVX rat model is essential for advancing osteoporosis research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive 4-step guideline for inducing osteoporosis in rats via ovariectomy (OVX).
• To detail optimal rat strain selection, age, surgical techniques, and verification methods for OVX models.
• To guide researchers in creating standardized and reproducible OVX rat models for osteoporosis studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review to identify best practices for OVX rat model induction.
• Analysis of common rat strains (Sprague-Dawley, Wistar) and optimal age (6 months) for OVX.
• Evaluation of surgical methods (dorsolateral incision) and verification techniques (hormonal, uterine weight, estrus cycle assessment).

Main Results:

• Sprague-Dawley and Wistar rats aged six months are suitable for OVX induction.
• Dorsolateral skin incision is recommended for OVX surgery, with verification possible 1-3 weeks post-surgery.
• OVX successfully induces osteoporosis, evidenced by decreased bone mineral density, altered trabecular bone structure, and hormonal changes.

Conclusions:

• A standardized 4-step guideline facilitates the reliable induction of OVX-induced osteoporosis in rats.
• The proximal tibia is recommended for short-term studies due to its rapid response to OVX.
• This guideline aids in developing effective osteoporosis prevention and treatment strategies through robust animal modeling.