A Simplified Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Model in Nude Mice

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Preclinical Research

Background:

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treatment research requires valid animal models.
• Preclinical studies of human cellular and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps) necessitate animal models that mimic human T1DM.
• Immune-deficient models are crucial for HCT/Ps research due to the human cell component.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a simplified Nude mouse model for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).
• To validate this model for preclinical evaluation of HCT/Ps.
• To assess the model's face and construct validity.

Main Methods:

• Induction of diabetes in male Nude mice using a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at 150 mg/kg.
• Monitoring of non-fasting plasma glucose (PG) levels for 50 days post-STZ administration.
• Assessment of diabetes remission, plasma insulin, pancreatic insulin content, and β-cell counts.

Main Results:

• 71% of STZ-treated mice developed stable diabetes (PG ≥ 15 mmol/L) by day 15, persisting for 50 days.
• Mean non-fasting PG in diabetic mice was 25.7 mmol/L over 35 days.
• Significant reductions observed in plasma insulin, pancreatic insulin content, and β-cell numbers compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• The described Nude mouse model effectively replicates key clinical and pathological features of T1DM.
• This model demonstrates both face and construct validity, making it suitable for preclinical HCT/Ps transplantation studies.
• The model provides a simplified and viable platform for advancing T1DM therapeutic research.