Experimental in Vitro and in Vivo Models of Demyelinating Disorders

Abstract

Experimental models provide a deeper understanding of the different pathogenic mechanisms involved in Demyelinating disorders. The development of new in vitro and in vivo models or variations of existing models will contribute to a better understanding of these diseases and their treatment. Experimental models help to extrapolate information on treatment response. Indeed, the choice of the experimental model strongly depends on the research question and the availability of technical equipment. In this chapter, the current in vitro and in vivo experimental models to examine pathological mechanisms involved in inflammation, demyelination, and neuronal degeneration, as well as remyelination and repair in demyelination disorders are discussed. We will also point out the pathological hallmarks of demyelinating disorders, and discuss which pathological aspects of the disorders can be best studied in the various animal models available.