Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026

Mouse Footpad Inoculation Model to Study Viral-Induced Neuroinflammatory Responses
Published on: June 14, 2020
Basic Science and Pathogenesis
Chengcheng Song1, Ting Yang1, Niccolo Terrando1
1Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
Background:
Postoperative delirium is a significant problem in older adults, especially in subjects with underlying neurodegeneration. Peripheral surgical trauma has been described as a trigger for microglial activation and cognitive deficits, with the blood-brain barrier (BBB) being implicated in the pathophysiology of delirium both in preclinical and clinical studies. However, no therapies are currently available to treat delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD).
Method:
We tested the neuroprotective effects of Annexin-A1 (ANXA1) using the 12-month old 3XTg-AD mouse model following orthopedic surgery. The expression of Ly6G+ neutrophil was detected by flow cytometry. Endothelia markers, fibrinogen and VCAM1 were investigated after surgery. Microglial activation was also evaluated.
Result:
Orthopedic surgery induced a robust inflammatory response in 3XTg mice both at 6 hr with neutrophilia. Treatment with ANXA1 did not impact the number of circulating neutrophils in the plasma but significantly reduced BBB dysfunction (including expression of fibrinogen and VCAM1) and microglial activation (IBA-1 and CD68).
Conclusion:
ANXA1 could be a new therapy targeted to protect the BBB in DSD.
Related Concept Videos
Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation,...
Pneumonia II: Pathophysiology
Stages of Infection
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...

