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.

3 Biotech
|February 13, 2023
PubMed

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.