Comprehensive Laboratory Animal Science: Ethics, Regulations, and Species Details

What is a laboratory animal?

Any animal used in biomedical research, testing, and teaching, including species like mice, rats, fish, birds, and non-human primates.

How many laboratory animals were used in the U.S. in 2010?

Approximately 26 million.

What is Laboratory Animal Science?

The science and technology dealing with the procurement, breeding, care, health, and selection of animals used in biomedical research and testing.

What major medical advances occurred in the 19th century due to animal experimentation?

Vaccines, anesthetics, surgical techniques, and techniques to prevent infection.

What significant event in laboratory animal science occurred in 1950?

The first national meeting of the Animal Care Panel was organized by five veterinarians.

What are the two main ethical concepts regarding animal use in research?

Right-based ethics and consequentialist ethics.

What are the Three Rs Principles in animal research ethics?

Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement.

What does 'Replacement' mean in the context of the Three Rs Principles?

Replacing higher vertebrates with lower animals or non-animal models.

What does 'Reduction' refer to in the Three Rs Principles?

Reducing the number of animals used to the optimal number through statistical analysis and preliminary studies.

What is meant by 'Refinement' in animal research?

Refining research procedures to minimize pain and suffering of animals.

How has animal research benefited both humans and animals?

It has led to medical advances resulting in longer and healthier lives for both humans and animals.

What discovery related to Covid-19 was made using animal models?

Preclinical data with Moderna's mRNA vaccine showed promising results in animal models, leading to rapid protection against SARS-CoV-2.

Who were the key figures in the discovery of insulin?

Dr. Frederick Banting and Professor John Macleod, with assistance from Charles Best and James Collip.

What was the significance of the discovery of insulin?

It allowed diabetic patients to live nearly normal lives, preventing early deaths.

What was the impact of 'The Pill' developed in 1960?

It had a dramatic impact on social life in the U.S. and around the world.

What is the significance of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in animal research?

Developed using mice, it made it possible for couples who could not conceive to have babies.

What are the laws and regulations regarding laboratory animals?

The care and use of laboratory animals in research are highly regulated to ensure ethical treatment.

What is the Animal Welfare Act (AWA)?

A federal law enacted in 1966 that protects all warm-blooded animals, except rats, mice, and birds, used in research, covering transport, sale, and handling.

What organization enforces the Animal Welfare Act?

The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) enforces the AWA by inspecting laboratories and monitoring compliance.

What significant amendment was made to the AWA in 1985?

The Improved Standards for Laboratory Animals Act mandated the establishment of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC).

What does the Public Health Service Policy (PHS Policy) cover?

It protects live vertebrates, including fish and reptiles, used in research, and applies to any research facility receiving PHS funds.

What is the purpose of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals?

It provides humane and scientific standards for the care of laboratory animals and is enforceable by the NIH Office of Laboratory Welfare.

What is the role of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)?

IACUC reviews proposed animal experiments, inspects animal facilities, and oversees animal welfare at the institution.

What are Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)?

GLP governs FDA and EPA regulations related to the care and use of animals in preclinical studies, ensuring compliance with federal laws.

What organization is responsible for accrediting research facilities for animal care?

The Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALACi) assesses and accredits research facilities worldwide.

What is the primary focus of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS)?

AALAS focuses on the production, care, and study of laboratory animals, providing education and certification for laboratory animal care personnel.

What is the significance of the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR)?

NABR fosters a framework for acceptable animal use in research, advocating for the scientific community and public interests.

What is the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM)?

ACLAM is an organization for veterinarians who specialize in laboratory animal medicine.

What is a unique biological feature of rats (Rattus norvegicus)?

Rats do not vomit and have continuously growing incisors that require gnawing to prevent malocclusion.

At what age do rats reach sexual maturity?

Rats reach sexual maturity at 5-8 weeks of age.

What is a common sign of stress or pain in rats?

The presence of porphyrin, a reddish-brown substance around the eyes or nose, indicates stress or pain.

What is the significance of vaginal stimulation in female rats?

Vaginal stimulation is important for the maintenance of corpora lutea during reproduction.

What dietary practice is common for laboratory rats?

Rats are commonly fed ad libitum with commercially available diets unless specific research requirements dictate otherwise.

What are the two types of rat strains used in research?

Outbred strains, which are genetically variable, and inbred strains, which are genetically identical.

What is the duration of estrus in female rats?

Approximately 12 hours every 4-5 days.

At what age does female fertility in rats decrease?

At 600-650 days (20-22 months).

What is the gestation period for rats?

19-23 days, with a mean of 21-22 days.

What is the average litter size for rats?

8-14 pups.

What is the weight of a neonatal rat?

Approximately 5-6 grams.

What is the typical adult weight range for male and female rats?

Males: 300-400 g, Females: 250-300 g.

What is the reproductive cycle duration for mice?

4 to 5 days.

At what age do female mice begin their reproductive cycles?

Approximately 30 days of age.

What is the gestation period for mice?

19-21 days.

What is the primary diet of guinea pigs?

Strict herbivores, including grasses, alfalfa, roots, seeds, and fruit.

What is the gestation period for guinea pigs?

59-72 days.

What is the average litter size for guinea pigs?

2-4 young.

What are the characteristics of neonatal guinea pigs?

Born mobile, fully haired, with teeth and open eyes and ears.

What is the adult weight range for male and female guinea pigs?

Males: 900-1000 g, Females: 700-900 g.

What percentage of total animals used in research in the US are non-human primates?

Less than 1/4 of 1%.

What are transgenic animals?

Animals with any genetic modification (insertion/deletion) to their genome.

What is a knockout mouse?

A mouse with a gene deletion achieved through homologous recombination.

What is the thermoneutral zone for mice?

29.6 - 30.5°C, which is very narrow.

What are some alternative methods to laboratory animal testing?

Computer modeling and organs on a chip.

What is the primary focus of Laboratory Animal Science?

Understanding the legal, moral, and ethical aspects of care and use of research animals.

What is the average daily feed requirement for mice?

3-5 grams.

What is the average daily water requirement for mice?

6-7 ml.

What is postpartum estrus in guinea pigs?

A period of 12-15 hours postpartum during which females can become pregnant again.

What is the significance of postpartum estrus in rats?

It allows for breeding shortly after giving birth, maximizing reproductive efficiency.

What is the weaning age for rats?

Approximately 21 days.

What is the typical age at which male mice reach puberty?

Approximately 44 days of age.