ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of the depolarizing stimulation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mouse model on the survival and behavioral performance. METHOD: Transgenic male mouse model of ALS at the age of 9~11 weeks were divided into sham control group (n=10) and stimulation group (n=9). Electrode was implanted in the motor cortex in left hemisphere. Movement thresholds (MT) were regularly checked. Half threshold of MT, unipolar, and continuous electrical stimulation (frequency, 50 Hz; pulse duration, 220micron s) was delivered through implanted electrode. Behavioral tests including Rota-rod and Paw-grip endurance were checked every day. RESULTS: Induction of symptom was delayed in 8 days in stimulation than sham control group. However, there was no significant difference in survival in both groups. Behavioral tests showed that stimulation group is significantly better than sham group in Rota-rod (11~15 weeks) and in grip endurance (11~14, 16 weeks). MT was always between 1.0 volt and 3.2 volt in sham group, however, MT was between 0.8 volt and 2.8 volt in stimulation group. MT was jumped up around the time of death in both groups. CONCLUSION: Electrical stimulation is considered to be one of possible trial methods in ALS model. However, parameters of the stimulation in the experiment should be modified for better results.