Intrathecal Delivery of a Test Compound to the Rat Central Nervous System

Start with an anesthetized rat with an implanted guide cannula in the lumbar spinal canal.

Insert a catheter-wire assembly through the guide cannula at an angle into the intrathecal space, where cerebrospinal fluid or CSF circulates.

Remove the guide cannula and slowly advance the catheter deeper.

Then, remove the wire entirely and connect the catheter to a delivery system.

Inject sterile saline into the spinal canal, ensuring clear passage.

Slowly administer a test compound solution into the CSF, followed by a flush with sterile saline.

Detach the delivery system, cut the catheter, and heat-seal its end.

Suture the heat-sealed catheter to the connective tissue and then close the skin over the catheter. Clean the site and allow the rat to recover.

The test compound spreads through the CSF to the spinal cord and brain, which comprise the central nervous system or CNS.

Within the CNS, it enters the neurons and offers therapeutic potential.

For placement of the catheter and injection of the compound, identify the two natural pits between the muscles above the shaved pelvis. And with one hand holding the pits, use the other hand to gently press and feel the spine from the caudal to rostral dire