An update of murine models and their methodologies in immune-mediated joint damage and pain research

• Published in: International immunopharmacology Vol. 128; p. 111440
• Main Authors: Martínez-Ramos, Sara, García, Samuel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 15.02.2024
• Subjects: Arthritis; Joint injury; Murine models; Pain; Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases; Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases; Joint injury; Arthritis; Pain; Research; Murine models
• ISSN: 1567-5769; 1878-1705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111440

[Display omitted] •Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD) are linked to immune disorders.•Murine models are profitable for the study of immune-mediated joint damage.•Murine models can be also targeted to RMD associated pain.•This review synthesizes the main murine models and techniques in RMD research.•Ethical principles, optimised methods and recommendations are also described. Murine models have played an indispensable role in the understanding of rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders (RMD), elucidating the genetic, endocrine and biomechanical pathways involved in joint pathology and associated pain. To date, the available models in RMD can be classified as induced or spontaneous, both incorporating transgenic alternatives that improve specific insights. It is worth noting that the selection of the most appropriate model together with the evaluation of their specific characteristics and technical capabilities are crucial when designing the experiments. Furthermore, it is also imperative to consistently adhere to the ethical standards concerning animal experimentation. Recognizing the inherent limitation that any model can entirely encapsulates the complexity of the pathophysiology of these conditions, the aim of this review is to provide an updated overview on the methodology of current murine models in major arthropathies and their immune-mediated pathways, addressing to basic, translational and pharmacological research in joint damage and pain.