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Updated: May 8, 2026

Assessment of the Metabolic Effects of Isocaloric 2:1 Intermittent Fasting in Mice
Published on: November 27, 2019
Fasting of mice: a review
T L Jensen1, M K Kiersgaard, D B Sørensen
1Novo Nordisk, Animal Unit, Maaloev, Denmark.
Fasting mice impacts hormone balance, metabolism, and physiology. Optimizing fasting duration and timing is crucial for accurate research outcomes and improved animal welfare.
Area of Science:
- Animal Research
- Physiology
- Animal Welfare
Background:
- Fasting mice is common in experiments to reduce variability and aid surgery.
- Unintended physiological effects of fasting are often overlooked.
- Optimizing fasting protocols is essential for maximizing scientific results and animal welfare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize the effects of fasting in mice.
- To guide the optimization of fasting procedures for diverse studies.
- To enhance scientific outcomes and minimize animal distress.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental studies on fasting in mice.
- Analysis of fasting-induced changes in physiological parameters.
- Description of normal mouse behavior and circadian rhythms.
Main Results:
- Fasting alters hormone balance, body weight, metabolism, hepatic enzymes, cardiovascular parameters, body temperature, and toxicological responses.
- Mice are nocturnal, consuming most food at night.
- Overnight fasting in mice differs from humans due to circadian rhythms and metabolic rates.
Conclusions:
- Fasting protocols must consider the mouse's nocturnal nature and circadian rhythms.
- Initiating fasting at different circadian points yields varied physiological impacts.
- Tailored fasting strategies are necessary for robust experimental data and ethical animal care.
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