Laboratory Animals > Volume 42, Number 3 > Pp. 231-245

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Review articles

An appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of newborn and juvenile rat models for researching gastrointestinal development

S J Henare ^* , D J Mellor ^* , R G Lentle  and P J Moughan ^*

^* Riddet Centre, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, New Zealand; Institute of Food Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Correspondence: S J Henare. Email: S.J.Henare{at}massey.ac.nz

Research on the impact of bioactive compounds on the development and functional maturation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract using newborn and juvenile rats has greatly contributed to the knowledge of GI physiology and to the improved clinical management of both premature and full-term newborns. Of the animal models available, two types have been described for use with young rats – maintenance models and substitution models. Maintenance models are those in which the young are reared with the dam and therefore benefit from continuation of natural nutrition and maternal care. Substitution models are those in which the young are reared in the absence of the dam using artificially formulated milk delivered by various means into specific GI sites. In this review, we describe these models and their operation, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each. Attention is also given to questions of scientific validity and some animal welfare issues raised by the use of these models.

Key Words: Artificial rearing • pup in a cup • rat pup • gastrointestinal development • animal welfare

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