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[rdw rats, a new hereditary dwarf model in the rat]
1Drug Development Laboratories, CHUGAI Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan.
Jikken Dobutsu. Experimental Animals
|January 1, 1988
Summary
A new autosomal recessive dwarf mutation (rdw) was identified in rats. This mutation causes pituitary hypoplasia and is a valuable model for studying human pituitary dwarfism.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Endocrinology
- Histology
Context:
- A novel hereditary dwarf mutation was discovered in a Wistar-Imamichi rat colony.
- The mutation was investigated using clinical, genetic, and histological analyses.
Purpose:
- To characterize a new dwarf mutation in rats.
- To determine the inheritance pattern and underlying pathology.
- To evaluate its utility as a model for human pituitary dwarfism.
Summary:
- The mutation, designated rdw, is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.
- Histological examination revealed hypoplasia of the anterior pituitary, specifically affecting growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreting cells.
- The mutant rats exhibit characteristics similar to the dw mouse.
Impact:
- This rat model provides a new tool for endocrinological research.
- It can be used to study the mechanisms of human pituitary dwarfism.
- Facilitates research into hormonal regulation and pituitary development.