Anatomical features for an adequate choice of experimental animal model in biomedicine: II. Small laboratory rodents, rabbit, and pig

Ann Anat. 2016 Mar:204:11-28. doi: 10.1016/j.aanat.2015.10.002. Epub 2015 Oct 23.

Abstract

The anatomical features distinctive to each of the very large array of species used in today's biomedical research must be born in mind when considering the correct choice of animal model(s), particularly when translational research is concerned. In this paper we take into consideration and discuss the most important anatomical and histological features of the commonest species of laboratory rodents (rat, mouse, guinea pig, hamster, and gerbil), rabbit, and pig related to their importance for applied research.

Keywords: Anatomy; Histology; Models; Pig; Rabbit; Rodents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Laboratory / anatomy & histology*
  • Biomedical Research / methods*
  • Cricetinae
  • Gerbillinae
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Rabbits
  • Rats
  • Species Specificity
  • Swine