Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection in canines plays a pivotal role in advancing preclinical research—particularly in the fields of neurology, neuropharmacology, and central nervous system (CNS) drug development. As interest in targeted CNS therapies grows, so does the need for accurate, reproducible, and ethically conducted CSF sampling models.

At PRA, we understand the value of collecting high-quality CSF samples in a way that ensures both scientific integrity and animal welfare. This blog explores the role of canine CSF collection in research, its methodologies, and the benefits it brings to the preclinical landscape.

Why Canines for CSF Research?

Canines are a valuable large-animal model for neurological research due to their anatomical and physiological similarities to humans, especially in terms of brain size, spinal canal access, and CSF volume.

Key reasons for selecting canines include:

  • Larger CSF volume compared to rodents, allowing for repeated sampling
  • More accurate PK/PD correlation for CNS-targeted therapeutics
  • Improved translatability for neurological diseases and CNS drug delivery
  • Ability to assess long-term drug effects in chronic studies

Methods of CSF Collection

At PRA, CSF is typically collected via cisterna magna puncture, a widely accepted and minimally invasive technique when performed by trained personnel under sterile conditions. This method allows for:

  • Clear, uncontaminated sample retrieval
  • Minimal animal distress under proper anesthesia
  • Sufficient volume for biomarker, drug concentration, or safety analysis

For long-term studies, indwelling catheterization of the cisterna magna or lumbar region may be used, enabling repeated sampling over time with reduced stress and procedural variability.

Applications in Research

CSF sampling is essential in a variety of study types, including:

  • Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modeling for CNS drugs
  • Biomarker discovery and validation
  • Neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration studies
  • BBB (Blood-Brain Barrier) penetration assessments
  • Toxicology evaluations for CNS-targeting compounds

These applications are particularly important for the development of biologics, small molecules, gene therapies, and intrathecal drug delivery platforms.

Commitment to Quality and Welfare

All CSF procedures at PRA are performed by experienced surgical teams and are fully compliant with IACUC and animal welfare standards. Our protocols are designed to maximize data quality while prioritizing animal comfort and care.

We also offer customizable surgical and sampling models to meet the unique needs of your program, whether you’re in early discovery or preparing for IND-enabling studies.

Cerebrospinal fluid collection in canines provides a robust, translational platform for understanding CNS drug behavior and neurological biomarkers. With skilled technique and ethical execution, CSF sampling enables the type of high-quality data required for confident decision-making in drug development.

Interested in incorporating CSF collection into your next study?
Contact the PRA team today to learn more about our capabilities and how we can support your preclinical research.

www.prasurgical.com

info@prasurgical.com