[Animal modeling] - Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of Fenbid on the rat model of lumbar disc herniation

  Objective To study the effect of fenbid, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, on lumbar disc herniation.

  Methods The rat model was established by compressing the dorsal root ganglion and transplanting the autologous caudate nucleus pulposus to the lumbar spine. The dosage of fenbid, a COX (cyclooxygenase) inhibitor, was 0.051g/kg for 28 consecutive days. The motor function score, mechanical stimulus retraction response, thigh circumference and gait of the animals were measured. 28d after administration, the lumbar vertebrae (L4-L6) and its nerves were taken and fixed with 4% formaldehyde solution for histopathological examination, and the serum and nerve root lesion tissues were taken for determination of the concentration of inflammatory factors.

  Results The COX inhibitor Fenbid could improve the motor function score, 50% width of mechanical foot retraction reflex, thigh circumference ratio (modeling side/opposite side), sciatic nerve function index (SFI), pathological changes of dorsal root ganglion and intervertebral disc tissues, and reduce inflammatory factors (PGE2, COX-2, NO, IL-1) in serum and lesion location of the model animals β、 IL-6).

  Conclusion COX inhibitors can improve the symptoms of the rat model of lumbar disc herniation.