In this episode of the Endpoints, Val Tassinari, a
scientists at ALS TDI discusses a recently published paper in
bio-protocol, a peer-reviewed protocol journal, outlining
a method to standardize how we genotype the SOD1
G93A mouse
model. We discuss what genotyping involves and the importance of conducting
rigorous preclinical research in models of ALS to ensure only the most viable
treatments make it into clinical trials which could save millions of dollars
and years of time.
Much of the drug development work that goes on here at
the ALS
Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) relies on thorough research in the
SOD1G93A mouse model, the mouse model most commonly used in ALS
preclinical research. In order to understand which potential ALS treatments hold promise,
our scientists rigorously test drug candidates in mice that display symptoms of
ALS. But if researchers are not careful in meticulously standardizing and
interpreting data from these mouse models, the quality of ALS research can
suffer.
In a paper recently
published in Bio-protocol,
ALS TDI scientists Valerie Tassinari and Dr. Fernando Vieira tackle this
problem by detailing a procedure to standardize one aspect of how ALS TDI uses
the SOD1G93A mouse model.
Read more here.