Optimization and evaluation of an experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage model in mice

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) occurs when blood enters the subarachnoid space, typically due to aneurysm rupture, triggering complex pathophysiological processes. A reliable animal model is crucial for simulating SAH and investigating mechanisms of brain white matter injury. SAH was induced in C57BL/6J mice using an intraluminal perforation technique. Various filaments were tested to determine the optimal one, and filament depth was carefully measured. Postoperative evaluations included monitoring body weight, blood distribution on the skull, and clot formation. Cerebral blood flow was assessed, and neurological function was evaluated using modified Garcia scores, open field tests, and gait analysis. Myelin integrity was assessed by Luxol fast blue staining, and immunofluorescence was used to examine myelin, microglia, and neuronal integrity in the cortex and striatum. Using 4 - 0 polypropylene filaments advanced to 13 ± 1 mm at a 15-20 degree, we established a stable SAH mouse model with a success rate of 91.43% and a mortality rate of 6.25%. The SAH group showed motor impairments at 48 h post-surgery, along with myelin damage in the corpus callosum and striatum, oligodendrocyte damage, and neuronal injury.Our improved intraluminal perforation technique offers a stable and standardized SAH model, providing a reliable platform for studying SAH pathophysiology and testing new therapies.