Long-term, age-associated activity quantification in the DE50-MD dog model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Animal models with a clinically relevant phenotype remain important for robust evaluation of novel therapeutics for the fatal X-linked genetic disorder Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Demonstration of functional improvement is crucial for both patients and regulatory authorities. Here, we investigate non-invasive methods to quantify activity changes in DE50-MD dogs.

A standardised approach to quantifying activity in domestic dogs.

Objective assessment of activity via accelerometry can provide valuable insights into dog health and welfare. Common activity metrics involve using acceleration cut-points to group data into intensity categories and reporting the time spent in each category. Lack of consistency and transparency in cut-point derivation makes it difficult to compare findings between studies.