Laboratory Animals
Laboratory Animals - Related Videos
05:33
Introducing Clicker Training as a Cognitive Enrichment for Laboratory Mice
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Cited by 25 •
2017
The development of new refinement strategies for laboratory mice is a challenging task that contributes towards fulfilling the 3R principle. This protocol introduces clicker training as a cognitive enrichment program for laboratory mice.
26:43
Computer-Generated Animal Model Stimuli
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Cited by 8 •
2007
Computer-generated stimuli using the Jacky dragon as a model.
08:00
Measuring Mass in the Laboratory
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2023
The analytical balance is the common piece of equipment in the scientific laboratory. These highly precise instruments can measure down to ten thousandths or even hundred thousandths of a gram. The triple beam balance is a type of scale that uses counterweights on a three rider beams to counterbalance the sample in the pan. On the other hand, modern analytical balances use a complex system of electronic sensors to accurately mass a substance. The analytical balance is so sensitive that it...
08:03
Diagnosis of Ecto- and Endoparasites in Laboratory Rats and Mice
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Cited by 19 •
2011
This article describes various procedures for screening rats and mice to detect endo- or ectoparasitism. Several diagnostic assays will be demonstrated, both those suitable for use on live animals and those used after euthanasia of the animal. Photographs to aid in identification of rat and mouse parasites will be included.
06:19
Decontamination for Laboratory Biosafety
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2023
Robert M. Rioux and Zhifeng Chen, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA Decontamination is essential for laboratory biosafety, as the accumulation of microbial contamination in the laboratory can lead to the transmission of disease. The degree of decontamination can be classified as either disinfection or sterilization. Disinfection aims to eliminate all pathogenic microorganisms, with the exception of bacterial spores on lab surfaces or equipment. Sterilization, on the other hand,...
FAQs
Laboratory animals allow researchers to examine how changes in genes, physiology, behavior, or pharmacological exposure affect an integrated organism. This whole-organism perspective adds information that may not emerge from cellular observations alone. It is especially relevant when studying disease mechanisms or potential treatments because biological responses can be evaluated across interacting systems rather than in isolation.
Controlled conditions help limit environmental variables that could influence biological measurements or behavior. By standardizing the animals’ surroundings and experimental conditions, researchers can more confidently relate observed changes to the factor being investigated. This improves experimental design and supports more consistent interpretation when studies examine genetic, physiological, behavioral, or pharmacological effects.
Studies may focus on genetic changes, physiological responses, behavioral effects, or responses to pharmacological substances. These categories allow researchers to examine biological processes from multiple perspectives, including how an altered factor affects an organism and how those effects relate to disease or treatment research. The appropriate focus depends on the biological question and the variables the experiment is designed to control.
Ethically regulated procedures shape how animal studies are designed and conducted. They connect scientific objectives with attention to animal welfare, encouraging researchers to consider how experiments can answer the biological question while limiting unnecessary animal-based work. This ethical framework also supports refinement of existing practices and consideration of methods that reduce or replace animal use where appropriate.
Planning begins with a clearly defined biological question, followed by selection of controlled conditions and experimental variables that can reveal the relevant genetic, physiological, behavioral, or pharmacological effects. Researchers must also incorporate ethical oversight and welfare considerations into the design. The resulting study should produce interpretable information while supporting responsible use of animals and consideration of alternative methods.
Laboratory animals contribute to research in physiology, genetics, immunology, toxicology, and drug development. Across these areas, they help researchers investigate biological processes, disease mechanisms, and potential treatments under controlled conditions. Their use can also inform animal welfare practices, experimental design, and the development of alternative approaches that reduce, refine, or replace animal-based studies.