[Microbiological standardization of laboratory animals]

An overview is given on various aspects of microbiological standardisation of laboratory animals. The paper focuses on small rodents because rats and mice are the most frequently used animal species. An introductory chapter describes the importance of micro-organisms and their potential effects on animals and animal experiments. Some terms describing the microbiological quality of rodents (e.g., germ-free, "SPF", conventional) are explained. Housing conditions and requirements for the management which are both necessary to maintain a high microbiological standard in the animal facility are described. The most relevant sources of micro-organisms are briefly discussed. An overview is given on some aspects which have to be considered during health monitoring like, e.g., micro-organisms to be monitored, sample size and frequency, age of animals. In the reference section primarily actual and general articles or recommendations are listed. Further details can be found at internet homepages which are listed for several organisations active in laboratory animal science.