Prediction of death in the SMNΔ7 mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy: Insight into disease stage and progression

► We developed a score that predicts death in the SMNΔ7 mouse model of SMA. ► We showed that SMNΔ7 mice has increased tissue lactate and decrease in respiratory rate. ► The novel score correlates linearly with tissue lactate levels and respiratory rate. ► This work provides insight into the disease stage and a possible biomarker for SMA. ► This method has broad application to various neonatal animal models of neurological disorders.