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Comparative Analysis Of Selected Model Species Used In Intervertebral Disc Research, Lauren A. Monaco
Comparative Analysis Of Selected Model Species Used In Intervertebral Disc Research, Lauren A. Monaco
Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)
Animal models are frequently used in place of human specimens to study the progression of injury and/or disease of the intervertebral disc (IVD). This project aimed to compare the geometry, hydration, histology, and mechanical properties of selected animal models: bovine (cow) tail, porcine (pig) lumbar, and ovine (sheep) lumbar IVDs. X-ray images were taken and used to determine the anterior, posterior, and lateral IVD and vertebral heights in order to calculate IVD: vertebral height ratios. Water content was determined by comparing IVD weight before (wet weight) and after (dry weight) 24 hours of incubation at 65°C. Mechanical properties …