Experimental protocols for SMA animal models
The availability of standardized operating procedures (SOPs) to unify experimental protocols used to test the effects of new treatments in animal models is a step that will undoubtedly improve the comparability of studies from different laboratories. SOPs are not meant to be mandatory but are designed to be a point of reference and should not prevent innovation and further improvement of the existing protocols. To ensure reproducibility and quality, each SOP has been drawn up by a group of independent researchers (listed in each protocol) and is updated on a regular basis.
TREAT-NMD supported the workshop dedicated to the creation of a collection of SOPs for SMA animal models, where 30 key researches from Europe and North America presented and discussed the parameters most commonly used to assess drug efficacy in SMA mouse models.
The workshop report is now available to download from this page.
The SOPs that have already been completed can be downloaded from this site and others will be added in the future. The last date each SOP was reviewed can be found under the code on the left of the page.

Human and murine SMN transcript analysis by absolute real time PCR
F. Danilo Tiziano – 29 June 2019
Muscle Function evaluation through isometric force measurements in mouse models for muscular atrophy
Chien-Ping Ko – 17 May 2019
Compound Muscle Activated Potential (CMAP) recordings from the triceps surae
Veronica Setola – 17 May 2019
Influence of housing, feeding, and handling conditions on SMA mouse performance
Charlotte Sumner and Arthur Burghes
– 17 May 2019
Synaptic transmission alterations in SMA mice / Electrophysiology
Lucia Tabares – 13 May 2019
Imaging neuromuscular junction pathology in mouse models of SMA
Tom Gillingwater – 13 May 2019
Use of pen test (balance beam) to assess motor balance and coordination in mice
Rashmi Kothary – 13 May 2019
Disclaimer: TREAT-NMD and the authors of the SOPs disclaim, without limitation, all liability for any loss or damage of any kind, including any direct, indirect or consequential damages, which might be incurred in connection with the information and procedures contained in these SOPs.