Rodent brain extraction and dissection: A comprehensive approach

MethodsX. 2023 Dec 7:12:102516. doi: 10.1016/j.mex.2023.102516. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Abstract

The neuroscience is continuously expanding field, and conducting experiments serves as one of the most effective approaches to enhance and broad our understanding of this fascinating field. Most of the lab work in neuroscience involves the use of animal models such as rats and mice for experiments dedicated to monitoring cerebral changes. The study:•Introduces a practical method for brain extraction without perfusion with paraformaldehyde prioritizing brain integrity and avoiding damage.•Offers a detailed, step-by-step dissection guide for different brain regions, including the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, corpus striatum, thalamus, cerebellum, and medial prefrontal cortex, from rodent brains, accompanied by high-resolution images that provide anatomical clarity.•Presents enhanced reliability, precision, and detailed anatomical descriptions.Conclusion: This study has introduced a reliable technique for brain extraction that eliminates the need for paraformaldehyde perfusion. Furthermore, a comprehensive methodology has been presented for extracting different brain regions from rodent brains.

Keywords: Brain extraction and dissection; Brain hemispheres; Isolation brain regions; Rat brain.