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World J Neurol. Sep 28, 2013; 3(3): 56-61
Published online Sep 28, 2013. doi: 10.5316/wjn.v3.i3.56
Variation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis scores in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis
Chisen Takeuchi, Kanato Yamagata, Takako Takemiya
Chisen Takeuchi, Tokyo Metropolitan Kita Medical and Rehabilitation Center for the Disabled, Tokyo 114-0033, Japan
Kanato Yamagata, Neural Plasticity Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
Takako Takemiya, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
Author contributions: Takeuchi C wrote the manuscript and generated the tables; Yamagata K contributed to the writing of the manuscript; Takemiya T contributed to the study design and wrote the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Takako Takemiya, Associate Professor, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, 8-1 Kawadacho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan. takakot@lab.twmu.ac.jp
Telephone: +81-3-33538111 Fax: +81-3-52697454
Received: June 28, 2013
Revised: July 31, 2013
Accepted: August 16, 2013
Published online: September 28, 2013
Processing time: 90 Days and 7.1 Hours
Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common demyelinating central nervous system disease associated with progressive physical impairment. To study the mechanism underlying disease pathogenesis and develop potential treatments, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is often used as an animal model. EAE can be induced in various species by introducing specific antigens, which ultimately result in motor dysfunction. Although the severity of the paralysis is indicated using the EAE score, there is no standard scoring system for EAE signs, and there is variability between research groups with regard to the exact EAE scoring system utilized. Here, we describe the criteria used for EAE scoring systems in various laboratories and suggest combining EAE score with another quantitative index to evaluate paralysis, such as the traveled distance, with the goal of facilitating the study of the mechanisms and treatment of MS.

Keywords: Multiple sclerosis; Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis; Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis score; Motor dysfunction

Core tip: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common demyelinating central nervous system disease associated with progressive physical impairment. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is often used as an animal model to study MS. EAE can be induced in various species by introducing specific antigens, and the severity of the paralysis is indicated using the EAE score. The score is simple and easy to use, however, its application varies between laboratories, and the scoring is dependent on the subjective bias of the researchers. We described the criteria used for the EAE scoring systems in various laboratories, to facilitate the study of MS.