Innovative statistical approaches: the use of neural networks reduces the sample size in the splenectomy-MCAO mouse model.

Aim: To compare the effectiveness of artificial neural network (ANN) and traditional statistical analysis on identical data sets within the splenectomy-middle carotid artery occlusion (MCAO) mouse model.

Methods: Mice were divided into the splenectomized (SPLX) and sham-operated (SPLX-sham) group. A splenectomy was conducted 14 days before middle carotid artery occlusion (MCAO).