Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Pathogenic Features and Experimental Models in Rodents.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Animal Models in Research
• Diabetes Pathophysiology

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with complex, incompletely understood pathogenesis.
• Significant clinical, immunological, and genetic distinctions exist between T2DM and type 1 diabetes mellitus.
• Experimental animal models are essential for investigating T2DM pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate current experimental animal models used for T2DM research.
• To assess the advantages and disadvantages of various T2DM models.
• To provide guidance on selecting appropriate models for specific research questions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of existing T2DM animal models.
• Comparative analysis of rodent models based on size, induction period, ease of induction, and cost-effectiveness.
• Discussion of critical factors influencing model selection and interpretation of results.

Main Results:

• Rodents are frequently utilized due to their practical advantages in T2DM research.
• Each model possesses unique strengths and limitations impacting study outcomes.
• Careful consideration of model characteristics is vital for valid T2DM research.

Conclusions:

• The selection of an appropriate animal model significantly influences T2DM research findings.
• Understanding model-specific factors is crucial for accurate interpretation of T2DM pathophysiology and therapy studies.
• This review offers a framework for informed decision-making in T2DM animal model selection.