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Updated: Aug 10, 2025

Modeling and Evaluation of Murine Diabetic Cardiomyopathy Model
Published on: November 29, 2024
Rodent models for diabetes
Patil Rashmi1, Aswar Urmila1, Akotkar Likhit1
1Department of Pharmacology, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Paud Road, Erandwane, Pune, 411038 India.
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with many health complications and is potentially a morbid condition. As prevalence increases at an alarming rate around the world, research into new antidiabetic compounds with different mechanisms is the top priority. Therefore, the preclinical experimental induction of DM is imperative for advancing knowledge, understanding pathogenesis, and developing new drugs. Efforts have been made to examine recent literature on the various induction methods of Type I and Type II DM. The review summarizes the different in vivo models of DM induced by chemical, surgical, and genetic (immunological) manipulations and the use of pathogens such as viruses. For good preclinical assessment, the animal model must exhibit face, predictive, and construct validity. Among all reported models, chemically induced DM with streptozotocin was found to be the most preferred model. However, the purpose of the research and the outcomes to be achieved should be taken into account. This review was aimed at bringing together models, benefits, limitations, species, and strains. It will help the researcher to understand the pathophysiology of DM and to choose appropriate animal models.
Insights
This review explores various animal models for inducing diabetes mellitus (DM) to study complications and develop new antidiabetic drugs. Chemically induced models, particularly streptozotocin, are highlighted as preferred for preclinical research.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health concern with increasing prevalence and severe complications.
- Developing novel antidiabetic therapies necessitates robust preclinical models to understand disease mechanisms and evaluate drug efficacy.
- Experimental induction of DM in animal models is crucial for advancing research and drug discovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize various in vivo methods for inducing Type I and Type II diabetes mellitus in animal models.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of chemical, surgical, genetic, and viral induction methods.
- To assist researchers in selecting appropriate animal models based on research objectives, benefits, and limitations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical studies involving experimental induction of DM.
- Categorization of induction methods including chemical agents (e.g., streptozotocin), surgical procedures, genetic manipulation, and viral induction.
- Evaluation of animal models based on face, predictive, and construct validity.
Main Results:
- Various in vivo models for DM induction were identified, encompassing chemical, surgical, genetic, and viral approaches.
- Chemically induced diabetes, particularly using streptozotocin, emerged as a widely preferred method in preclinical research.
- The choice of model depends on specific research goals, desired outcomes, and the need for validity.
Conclusions:
- A variety of validated animal models exist for studying diabetes mellitus.
- Streptozotocin-induced diabetes is a common and effective model for preclinical antidiabetic drug research.
- Selecting the appropriate animal model is critical for successful preclinical assessment and understanding DM pathophysiology.

