New virtual platform for teaching comparative animal neuroanatomy based on metameric slices of the central nervous system.

ABSTRACT

With the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, new technologies were used as methods to continue teaching and learning activities. This scenario brought forth the need to develop online tools for teaching. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a digital platform linking the knowledge about the central nervous system (CNS) anatomy from feline, equine, and sheep models. The platform was produced from the analysis of a collection of mesoscopic slides made from the sequenced cross-section of the CNS of a feline, an equine, and a sheep. All sections were analysed and stained using the Paul-Wiegert modified technique. The platform was organized in four modules (1) Neuroanatomy of the Central Nervous System; (2) Neuroanatomy of Feline; (3) Neuroanatomy of Equine; and (4) Neuroanatomy of sheep. For each module, an explanatory document in PDF was developed, as well as video lectures and a descriptive atlas identifying the structures present in the encephalon and in the cervical part of the spinal cord. Even though there are numerous online platforms that allow the study of veterinary anatomy of different species and organs, the veterinary neuroanatomy platform presented here is the first platform that conjointly addresses the CNS anatomy of felines, equines, and sheep. Future research applying this platform as an aid to the study of neuroanatomy by students, teachers, and veterinary professionals should validate its use as a complementary tool for teaching and learning animal neuroanatomy.