Urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator-induced Mouse Back Pain Model

Area of Science:

• Pain research
• Animal models of disease
• Inflammation

Background:

• Chronic lower back pain is a prevalent global health issue.
• Existing models for persistent pain are limited, hindering therapeutic development.
• The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) emphasizes translating pain knowledge into practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple, rapid, and effective method for inducing a persistent lower back pain model in mice.
• To provide a valuable tool for preclinical testing of novel pain therapeutics.
• To facilitate research aligned with the IASP's Global Year for Translating Pain Knowledge to Practice.

Main Methods:

• Induction of pain model via lumbar spine injection of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (urokinase).
• Urokinase activates plasminogen to plasmin, initiating an inflammatory response.
• Observation of hypersensitivity, gait disturbances, and anxiety/depression-like behaviors.

Main Results:

• The model can be induced within 10 minutes.
• Induced hypersensitivity persists for at least 8 weeks.
• The model allows for assessment of various pain-related behaviors.

Conclusions:

• This urokinase-induced mouse model offers a robust platform for studying persistent lower back pain.
• The model's features are suitable for evaluating therapeutic interventions for chronic back pain and associated symptoms.
• This methodology supports advancements in pain management and translation of research findings.