【Animal modeling】-MRI and ultrastructural analysis of hippocampus of APP/PS1 double transgenic AD model mice

  Objective To observe the relationship between the changes of metabolites in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 transgenic mice and ultra-pathological changes, so that the gene mice can be better used in the experimental study of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

  Methods The learning and memory abilities of APP/PS1 transgenic mice and wild mice of the same age and background were compared through novel object recognition experiments. Contents of metabolites such as inositol (mI), choline (Cho) and glutamate (Glu); the ultrastructure of nerve cells and astrocytes were observed by transmission electron microscopy.

  Results Compared with the wild mice, the learning and memory ability of the transgenic mice was decreased, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0. 05). mI/Cr and Cho/Cr increased (P < 0.05); mitochondrial degeneration and pyknosis of nerve cells and astrocytes, increased number of secondary lysosomes, hyperactivation of astrocytes, phagocytosis and dystrophy synapse.

  Conclusion The changes of NAA, mI, Cho and other metabolites in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 transgenic mice can reflect the abnormal inflammatory response induced by β-amyloid and the destruction of synaptic structure in the process of AD lesions. Rat is better used in AD research to provide experimental basis.