Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 19, 2025
Neurodevelopmental Reflex Testing in Neonatal Rat Pups
Published on: April 24, 2017
Rodent models of metabolic disorders: considerations for use in studies of neonatal programming
Kasimu Ghandi Ibrahim1,2, Dawoud Usman1,2, Muhammad Bashir Bello2,3
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Insights
Neonatal rodent models are crucial for understanding how early life influences adult metabolic disorders. This review outlines five key models and interventions for preventing metabolic disease, aiding future research.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic disorders and their link to obesity.
- Developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD).
Background:
- Early postnatal life is a critical window for programming adult metabolic disorders.
- Obesity prevalence highlights the epidemiological significance of metabolic disorders.
- Limited generalized literature exists on neonatal rodent models for metabolic programming studies.
Approach:
- This review establishes five approach-based models using neonatal rodents to study metabolic phenotypes.
- Highlights existing modeled interventions for preventing metabolic disorders.
- Provides recommendations and guidelines for neonatal programming research.
Key Points:
- Five distinct neonatal rodent models for metabolic phenotype research are presented.
- Current interventions for metabolic disorder prevention are discussed.
- Guidelines are offered to enhance research in neonatal programming.
Conclusions:
- Standardized neonatal rodent models are essential for studying metabolic disorder etiology and mechanisms.
- This review aims to support researchers in the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders.
- Understanding neonatal programming is key to addressing adult metabolic health challenges.
Abstract:
Epidemiologically, metabolic disorders have garnered much attention, perhaps due to the predominance of obesity. The early postnatal life represents a critical period for programming multifactorial metabolic disorders of adult life. Though altricial rodents are prime subjects for investigating neonatal programming, there is still no sufficiently generalised literature on their usage and methodology. This review focuses on establishing five approach-based models of neonatal rodents adopted for studying metabolic phenotypes. Here, some modelled interventions that currently exist to avoid or prevent metabolic disorders are also highlighted. We also bring forth recommendations, guidelines and considerations to aid research on neonatal programming. It is hoped that this provides a background to researchers focused on the aetiology, mechanisms, prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders.
