Review: Preclinical Models of Large-Vessel Occlusion Stroke

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Translational Medicine
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Preclinical models are essential for evaluating stroke therapies and devices.
• Different models recapitulate various aspects of human stroke pathophysiology.
• Key variables like occlusion, clot composition, and reperfusion can be controlled.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare existing preclinical models of large-vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke.
• To guide the selection of appropriate animal models for stroke research.
• To identify optimal models for translating therapies and devices into clinical trials.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature review using the PubMed database.
• Included original studies, reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses.
• Analyzed small- and large-animal LVO stroke models, their benefits, and limitations.

Main Results:

• Detailed the considerations for selecting LVO stroke models.
• Discussed outcome measures for tissue damage and behavioral assessment.
• Highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of various animal models.

Conclusions:

• Mice are the most versatile small-animal model for LVO stroke research.
• Dogs are the most appropriate large-animal model for LVO stroke research.
• Selected models facilitate the translation of candidate drugs and devices.