The streptozotocin-induced diabetic nude mouse model: differences between animals from different sources

Area of Science:

• * Endocrinology and Metabolism
• * Animal Models of Disease

Background:

• * Streptozotocin (STZ) is commonly used to induce diabetes in rodent models by targeting pancreatic beta cells.
• * Variability in mouse source can influence experimental outcomes in STZ-induced diabetes models.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To evaluate the sensitivity of nude male mice from different suppliers to streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes.
• * To compare adverse effects, glycemic control, and mortality rates across various mouse sources.

Main Methods:

• * Male nude mice from Charles River Laboratories (CRL), Taconic Farms (TAC), and Jackson Laboratories (JAX) were administered a single high dose of STZ (160-240 mg/kg).
• * Mice were monitored for 30 days for blood glucose levels, insulin requirements, body weight changes, and mortality.

Main Results:

• * CRL mice exhibited higher resistance to STZ, with over 95% developing diabetes within 5 days at 240 mg/kg STZ and minimal weight loss (0.4g).
• * TAC and JAX mice were more sensitive to STZ, developing diabetes faster, requiring more insulin, experiencing greater weight loss (3.5g and 3.7g respectively), and showing higher mortality rates.
• * Adverse effects and mortality varied significantly based on the mouse supplier.

Conclusions:

• * Nude mouse source is a critical factor influencing STZ-induced diabetes model outcomes.
• * Exploratory safety assessments are recommended to select a mouse source that minimizes morbidity and mortality (<10%).
• * Understanding supplier-specific sensitivities is crucial for reliable and reproducible diabetes research using STZ models.