The Study Of Degeneration Of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc In Rabbits Caused By Human-like Upright Walking With Both Feet

Background: Although there are many disc degeneration animal models, but there still lack one ideal animal model which could simulate walking upright human intervertebral disc degeneration.Objective: To investigate the feasibility of establishing disc degeneration animal model induced by walking upright way.Methods: 14 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided intoexperimental and control groups through the random number table method. All rabbits neck were tied by the polyester rope with 5mm diameter, then the polyester rope was linked by the stir wire with 1mm diameter. The rabbits were kept sitting position in the experiment group, and the rabbits were kept in nature position in the control group. Then the rabbits were kept in the same environment for 6 months.Results: The intervertebral disc degeneration degree was evaluated through 3.0MRI, disc height measurement and histopathology staining after 6 months. Firstly, T2 WI image signal in the experimental group was significantly lower than the control group. Secondly, there is obviously difference between the two groups on the height of intervertebral disc. Finally, H&E staining shown that the disc normal structure changed to disordered layered structure and there is statistically significant difference between the two groups on the pathological grade(P <0.05).Conclusion: Through keeping the rabbit in stand position can successfully establish intervertebral disc degeneration animal model.