Humanized rodent models of neurodegenerative diseases and other brain disorders

Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases significantly affect human health. However, replicating the onset, progression, and pathology of these diseases in rodents is challenging. To address this issue, researchers have developed humanized animal models. These models introduce human genes or cells into rodents. As a result, rodents become more suitable for studying human CNS diseases and their therapies in vivo. This review explores the preparation protocols, pathological and behavioral characteristics, benefits, significance, and limitations of humanized rodent models in researching various CNS diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, glial cells-related CNS diseases, N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor encephalitis, and others. Humanized rodent models have expanded the opportunities for in vivo exploration of human neurodegenerative diseases, other brain disorders, and their treatments. We can enhance translational research on CNS disorders by developing, investigating, and utilizing these models.