Handbook of Animal Models for the Rheumatic Diseases

Detailed methods of the most widely used and best established animal models and related approaches to the study of rheumatic diseases and their treatment are presented in this major reference book. The detailed description of each model allows the reader to select the model most appropriate for his research and to reproduce the model without resorting to additional references. In addition, other methods for induction of the model, sources for procurement of suitable animals and validation of the model are highlighted. Methods for eliciting non-spontaneous phenomena, follow-up examinations and data collection are also described. Specific techniques such as joint-injection, obtaining synovial tissue, methods of assessment and similar non-specific information are emphasized. This easy-to-read resource text is essential for scientists, graduate students, research assistants, physicians and other investigators who use animal models for the study of rheumatic diseases.

1. The Biology of Cartilage and Synovium in Animal Models of Osteoarthritis 2. Rabbit Partial Medial Meniscectomy 3. Partial Lateral Meniscectomy with Section of Fibular Collateral and Sesamoid Ligaments in the Rabbit 4. Ligament Transection Model of Osteoarthritis 5. Cartilage Atrophy Induced by Limb Immobilization 6. Surgically Induced Osteoarthritis in Guinea Pigs 7. Crystal-Induced Joint Inflammation 8. Spontaneous and Experimental Articular and Periarticular Calcification 9. Bioethical Obligations to Animals Used in Research 10. Radiographic Analysis of Experimental Rat Arthritis 11. The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Roidents 12. Animal Models for the Assay of Gastrointestinal Toxicity of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs