As a study director, Sandra works routinely on pre-clinical models such as PAH and COPD. Over the past three years she and her team have developed the implantation method of pressure telemetry probes in rats.
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Sickle Cell model
Purpose
Sickle cell disease is characterized by recurring episodes of painful vaso-occlusive crisis, acute chest syndrome, and multiple organ damage. Although hemoglobin S (HbS) polymerization and red cell sickling under deoxygenated conditions are central to the pathophysiology of this disease, emerging evidence indicates that vascular endothelial activation and blood cell–endothelium interactions may contribute significantly to the onset of vaso-occlusive episodes.
Method
Humanized SCD mice allow for the conduct of preclinical studies of therapies that might have a role in SCD pain. These animals display thermal, mechanical, and muscle hyperalgesia a desensitization of somatosensory fibers. Interestingly, this mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia is accentuated by hypoxia and reoxygenation.
Study outcome
On demand, our histologist can quantify the amount of sickle cells and microscopic pictures can be taken to support the quantification. A white blood cells differential can also be done to determine the number of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils and eosinophils. For more statistical power, we strongly suggest making a baseline blood draw follows by another blood draw after the hypoxia/reoxygenation challenge to determine if the treatment can reduce the effect of this acute sickling on the hematology or can ameliorate the baseline parameters.
Species
Mice
Sandra Gagnon
Study Director
