Technical Assessment of Motor and Behavioral Tests in Rodent Models of Multiple Sclerosis.

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor and cognitive impairments, affecting millions worldwide. It significantly reduces patients' quality of life and imposes a burden on health systems. Despite advances in understanding MS, there is no cure, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic strategies. Preclinical animal models are critical for gaining insights into MS pathophysiology and treatments. However, these models fail to fully replicate the complexity of human MS, making it essential to choose appropriate models and behavioral tests to evaluate their efficacy.

Purpose: This review examines various motor and cognitive behavioral tests used in preclinical MS models, discussing their strengths and limitations. The goal is to guide researchers in selecting the most appropriate tests for their models, while providing insights into how these tests are performed and analyzed.

Methods: We reviewed motor and cognitive behavioral tests used in MS models, detailing test procedures and evaluating their advantages and disadvantages.

Results: This review offers a comprehensive overview that aids researchers in choosing the most suitable tests for their studies, improving the accuracy and reliability of preclinical MS research.

Conclusions: Understanding the strengths and limitations of these tests is crucial for making informed decisions, leading to better experimental designs and, ultimately, more effective therapeutic interventions for MS.