CCI was performed as described previously (Leitner et al., 2013 (link)). Briefly, mice were deeply anesthetized with 1.25–1.5% isoflurane and the right sciatic nerve was exposed at the mid-thigh level. After removal of adherent tissue, three loose ligatures with chromic gut 6/0 (SMI) were tied 1 mm apart around the nerve, proximal to the trifurcation. Muscle and skin were closed with sutures (Silkam 6/0 and Safil 4/0, respectively; Ethicon) and wound clips.