Revised: July 31, 2013
Accepted: August 16, 2013
Published online: September 28, 2013
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common demyelinating central nervous system disease associated with progressive physical impairment. To study the mechanism underlying disease pathogenesis and develop potential treatments, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is often used as an animal model. EAE can be induced in various species by introducing specific antigens, which ultimately result in motor dysfunction. Although the severity of the paralysis is indicated using the EAE score, there is no standard scoring system for EAE signs, and there is variability between research groups with regard to the exact EAE scoring system utilized. Here, we describe the criteria used for EAE scoring systems in various laboratories and suggest combining EAE score with another quantitative index to evaluate paralysis, such as the traveled distance, with the goal of facilitating the study of the mechanisms and treatment of MS.
Core tip: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common demyelinating central nervous system disease associated with progressive physical impairment. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is often used as an animal model to study MS. EAE can be induced in various species by introducing specific antigens, and the severity of the paralysis is indicated using the EAE score. The score is simple and easy to use, however, its application varies between laboratories, and the scoring is dependent on the subjective bias of the researchers. We described the criteria used for the EAE scoring systems in various laboratories, to facilitate the study of MS.