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Protocol to refine intestinal motility test in mice.
Hérida Regina Nunes Marona1, Maria Beatriz Bastos Lucchesi
1Departamento de Fármacos e Medicamentos, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rodovia Araraquara-Jaú, km 1, CEP 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil. maronah@fcfar.unesp.br
Laboratory Animals
|June 23, 2004
Summary
This study introduces a humane animal research protocol using a 3-hour fasting period for mice to accurately measure intestinal transit time. This method reduces animal stress and aligns with ethical scientific practices.
Area of Science:
- Animal Research Ethics
- Pharmacology
- Physiology
Background:
- Traditional animal models for intestinal motility studies often involve prolonged fasting periods, potentially causing animal distress.
- The 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) principle guides ethical advancements in animal research.
- Standardized protocols are crucial for reliable and reproducible experimental outcomes in physiological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and validate a novel, ethically aligned protocol for assessing intestinal motility in mice.
- To minimize animal stress by implementing a short, controlled fasting period.
- To establish a reliable method for measuring charcoal-induced intestinal transit time.
Main Methods:
- A new protocol was developed involving a 3-hour fasting period for mice.
- Animals were orally administered charcoal to track intestinal transit.
- Intestinal transit time was determined by observing the time of charcoal-induced evacuation.
- Mice were not euthanized as part of the experimental procedure.
Main Results:
- The 3-hour fasting protocol effectively controlled for intestinal motility.
- The method demonstrated reduced stress levels in the animal subjects.
- Charcoal evacuation time served as a reliable indicator of intestinal transit.
Conclusions:
- The proposed protocol offers a humane and effective alternative for studying intestinal motility in mice.
- This approach aligns with the 3Rs principles, promoting ethical animal research.
- Findings may inform revised guidelines for animal fasting durations in similar experimental settings.