Modifications and Optimization of an Autologous Intracerebral Hemorrhage Rat Model

Objective: To date, no novel drug therapies have proven effective in improving outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This has been slowed, in part, by a lack of reliable preclinical models that recapitulate the pathophysiological consequences of ICH. Limited descriptions of the methodology of preclinical models may play a role in this failed translation. The current study aimed to improve the autologous blood injection model of ICH and provide a comprehensive methodology to facilitate a reliable preclinical model that bridges the translational research gap. Methods: A modified single-injection protocol for an autologous-blood ICH model was developed and tested. This rodent ICH model produces injury in the basal ganglia of adult rats via a stereotaxically-assisted right-sided single-injection of fresh autologous whole blood. A comprehensive step-wise description of the methodology is presented and documented in a written and visual format with supporting pictorialmaterial, to prevent common mistakes that result in failed hematoma formation.Rates of successful hematoma formation using the single-injection protocol, outlined here, were compared to those using the traditional double-injection protocol.