8.6: Presentation session: BRAiN measurement and imaging technologies, brain injuries and neuro-regeneration panel, and making a difference: Identifying and closing the knowledge gaps discussion/forum: “Animal models for the study of military-relat

In present war time conditions, traumatic brain injury (TBI) has moved to the forefront as a “signature injury.” In terms of prevalence and understanding the biological mechanisms that underlie the injury, blast-induced TBI -particularly in “mild” cases-has proven to be a significant challenge for military medicine. Basic research that employs animal models of TBI is a key element for furthering our understanding of the biological consequences of blast-related TBI and for the development of therapeutic approaches. Currently available prototypes for the study of TBI, particularly in rodent models, are the most widely used approaches for modeling TBI, and can contribute to understanding the mechanisms of injury. The identification of research gaps that require critical attention will further improve investigative methods.