Brain arteriovenous malformations: A scoping review of experimental models

• Published in: Interdisciplinary neurosurgery : Advanced techniques and case management Vol. 25; p. 101200
• Main Authors: Rivera, Rodrigo, Cruz, Juan Pablo, Merino-Osorio, Catalina, Rouchaud, Aymeric, Mounayer, Charbel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.09.2021; Elsevier
• Subjects: Animal models; Arteriovenous malformations; Brain; Neuroradiology; Neurosurgery; Radiotherapy; Arteriovenous malformations; Brain; Animal models; Neurosurgery; Radiotherapy; Neuroradiology
• ISSN: 2214-7519; 2214-7519
• DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2021.101200

•Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVM) are complex vascular lesions.•Because of their complexity it has been difficult to find a suitable experimental model that could account for all of their characteristics.•We mapped with this scoping review all published bAVM models that has been used for research or training.•We identified and show 9 different kind of bAVM models grouped in Vivo and in Vitro, and 5 different kind of uses. Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVM) are one of the most complex vascular lesions in humans. Their understanding and treatment have been possible through the use of different experimental models. The aim of this scoping review was to systematically map the existing experimental models used for bAVM research and training. A scoping review was conducted, and a search process was performed in 7 electronic databases from inception to April 30th, 2020. Study selection included all types of research articles that used any kind of experimental model for AVM study. Selection and data extraction were performed by independent reviewers. The initial search retrieved 942 articles which were reduced to 177 articles after the whole inclusion / exclusion process. We identified 9 main AVM experimental models, divided in in vivo: transgenic, rete mirabile, carotid-jugular fistula, carotid-jugular plexus fistula, arteriovenous shunt and cornea; or in vitro: 3D cast, computer generated and biological graft. First developed models were dedicated to study the hemodynamic effects and then followed by endovascular testing using the swine rete mirabile. The latest developments have come with transgenic models, allowing the manipulation and creation of AVMs in rodent brains, giving a huge step in the understanding of genetic origin, angiogenic mechanisms or potential therapeutic targets for the future. There is no unique model that could account for all features of bAVM. We expect a continuous development of more accurate models that could lead to optimize and develop new treatment strategies for increasing the cure rate of this disease.