The mdx mouse develop an X-linked recessive muscular dystrophy (locus Xp21.1) and lack dystrophin expression. Despite showing less intense myofibrosis and scarce deposition of fatty tissue, mdx mice are considered an adequate animal model for studies on the pathogenesis of Duchenne-type muscular dystrophy. Marked histological alterations in the muscular tissues associated to myonecrosis and inflammatory mononuclear cell infiltrate (lymphocytes, monocytes/macrophages) suggest a participation of the immune system in this myopathy. Modulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the muscular tissue during all phases (onset, myonecrosis and regeneration) of disease, indicate an important role for the ECM driving inflammatory cells to the foci of lesion. Therefore mdx mice should be regarded as an important tool for studies on pathogenetic mechanisms of Duchenne-type muscular dystrophy. Such experimental model would allow development of new therapeutic approaches for increasing survival and clinical amelioration.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy; dystrophin; mdx; animal model