Methods and protocols for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) mouse models using paclitaxel

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Chemotherapy can cause debilitating peripheral neuropathy, impacting cancer patient survivorship.
• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) presents with symptoms like pain and numbness, often leading to treatment modification.
• Developing effective CIPN treatments requires reliable preclinical models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a reproducible and translatable preclinical mouse model for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).
• To detail a methodology for inducing and assessing CIPN using intermittent low-dose paclitaxel in C57BL/6J mice.
• To provide a framework for investigating the relationship between chemotherapy and peripheral nerve health.

Main Methods:

• Induction of CIPN in C57BL/6J mice using intermittent low-dose paclitaxel.
• Assessment of mechanical hypersensitivity using von Frey filaments.
• Evaluation of mechanical hyposensitivity (numbness) and cold-thermal allodynia via the acetone test.

Main Results:

• The described methodology successfully induces CIPN in mice, mirroring key clinical symptoms.
• The model demonstrates reproducibility and translatability to aspects of the human CIPN phenotype.
• The assays employed effectively quantify sensory deficits associated with paclitaxel treatment.

Conclusions:

• The presented paclitaxel-induced mouse model offers a valuable tool for CIPN research.
• This methodology facilitates the study of CIPN mechanisms and the testing of potential therapeutics.
• The adaptable protocols support diverse experimental needs in CIPN research.