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Methodology and Neuromarkers for Cetaceans' Brains
Simona Sacchini1, Pedro Herráez1, Manuel Arbelo1
1Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Veterinary School, Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, c/Transmontaña s/n, 35416 Arucas, Spain.
Veterinary Sciences
|February 24, 2022
Summary
This study presents a validated method for cetacean brain sampling, enabling both neuroanatomical studies and fresh tissue analysis. The protocol optimizes preservation for large brains, crucial for understanding cetacean neuropathology and neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Marine Mammal Science
- Neuroscience
- Pathology
Background:
- Cetacean brain sampling is challenging due to specimen size and rarity.
- Optimal manipulation and fixation methods are needed for neuroanatomical and neuropathological studies.
- Fresh brain samples are required for toxicological, virological, and microbiological analyses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate a methodology for preserving large cetacean brains for neuroanatomy and neuropathology.
- To enable fresh brain sample collection for toxicological, virological, and microbiological analysis.
- To investigate the utility of neuromarkers for studying brain structure, function, and disease in cetaceans.
Main Methods:
- A fixation protocol was adapted and tested for cetacean brains, significantly larger than human brains.
- A panel of 20 antibodies (neuromarkers) was utilized to assess brain structure, function, and pathology.
- The sampling protocol and neuromarkers were designed to explore neurodegenerative diseases in cetaceans.
Main Results:
- The validated methodology effectively preserves large cetacean brains for detailed neuroanatomical and neuropathological examination.
- The study successfully obtained fresh brain samples suitable for toxicological, virological, and microbiological investigations.
- The panel of neuromarkers provided insights into cellular changes and the status of neuronal populations.
Conclusions:
- The developed protocol optimizes cetacean brain sampling and preservation for diverse analyses.
- Neuromarker panels are essential for a comprehensive understanding of neuropathological changes and cellular status in cetacean brains.
- This methodology facilitates research into neurodegenerative diseases and other health issues in long-lived marine mammals.
