A precision surgical approach for complete or partial callosotomy in the mouse

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Surgical Techniques
• Animal Models

Background:

• The corpus callosum (CC) is a crucial white matter tract connecting the brain hemispheres.
• Understanding CC function requires precise experimental manipulation.
• Existing methods may cause significant collateral damage or lack specificity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a refined surgical technique for complete or partial transection of the mouse corpus callosum.
• To highlight the advantages of this method in terms of precision and minimal invasiveness.
• To assess the adaptability of the technique for broader rodent research.

Main Methods:

• A three-cut approach using a thin tungsten knife was employed.
• Surgical access was gained through the dorsal cerebrum, lateral to the midline.
• The procedure aimed for complete rostrocaudal transection of the corpus callosum.

Main Results:

• The described method achieves near-total transection of the corpus callosum.
• Minimal bleeding and extracallosal damage were observed.
• The technique allows for selective transection of anterior, middle, or posterior CC segments.

Conclusions:

• This surgical approach provides a reliable and minimally damaging method for corpus callosum transection in mice.
• The technique's adaptability to other rodent species broadens its research utility.
• It facilitates studies investigating the role of specific CC regions in brain function.