Experimental Animal Models for Moyamoya Disease: A Species-Oriented Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Immunology

Background:

• Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder marked by progressive intracranial artery stenosis and moyamoya vessel formation.
• The exact etiology and pathogenesis of MMD remain largely unknown.
• Significant hurdles in MMD research include specimen scarcity and the absence of a definitive animal model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the characteristics of currently available animal models for Moyamoya disease research.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the existing animal model framework for MMD.
• To guide the selection of appropriate model types for future MMD studies and identify strategies for developing improved models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing Moyamoya disease animal models.
• Categorization of models based on development mechanisms: genetic, immunological/inflammatory, and ischemic.
• Evaluation of advantages and disadvantages of various animal models, including zebrafish, rodents, rabbits, primates, felines, and canines.

Main Results:

• Multiple animal models exist for MMD research, each with specific strengths and limitations.
• Genetic, immunological/inflammatory, and ischemic approaches are the primary mechanisms for generating MMD models.
• The review highlights the diversity of models available, from small organisms to larger mammals and cell-based systems.

Conclusions:

• The selection of an appropriate animal model is crucial for advancing Moyamoya disease basic research.
• Understanding the characteristics of current models is essential for designing effective future research strategies.
• Further development of robust and relevant animal models is necessary to elucidate MMD pathogenesis and facilitate therapeutic discovery.