Human and animal models for studying hemorrhagic shock.

BACKGROUND

Studying the physiological response to severe hemorrhage remains challenging in real-world patients. Animal and human models mitigate some of the challenges by facilitating controlled studies on hemorrhagic shock. Here, we comment on existing and future hemorrhagic shock models.

MODELS FOR STUDYING HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK

While small animal models are cost-effective and suited for proof-of-concept studies, large animal models provide better translational relevance as they are physiologically and anatomically more comparable to humans. Experimental models in healthy volunteers- and specifically the lower body negative pressure model- offer a human model to study early hemodynamic responses to simulated hemorrhage, though limited in severity and lack of tissue injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Animal and human models are valuable in studying the physiological response to hemorrhage. Acknowledging their respective limitations, a triangulated approach can enhance our overall understanding of hemorrhagic shock. In the future, we expect artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer-based simulation models to complement existing research models.