Rabbit Models
Advantages of Rabbit Models
Rabbits are relatively inexpensive to purchase, raise and maintain compared to large animal models. They are easy to raise and handle and are recognized as proven models by the scientific community and regulatory agencies. Rabbits are phylogenetically closer to primates than rodents and have more diverse genetic backgrounds than inbred and distantly bred rodent strains, which makes rabbit models closer to humans overall. In addition, rabbit genomics and proteomics are developing rapidly, and a number of transgenic lines have been established and characterized and are readily available.
What Types of Research Are Rabbits Used for?
- Medical Research. Rabbits are widely used in disease modeling, drug testing, vaccine development, toxicity testing, ophthalmic research, cardiovascular research, and more.
- Biological research. Rabbits have physiological systems that are more similar to those of humans and are commonly used in molecular biology, cell biology, reproductive biology, genetics, and other research.
- Antibody production and research. Rabbits can produce antisera containing high concentrations of antibodies with increased sensitivity and affinity for specific targets. A variety of diseases have benefited from antibody production and research in rabbits, including the treatment of Covid-19 caused by SARS-Cov-2.
What Fields of Scientists Like to Choose Our Rabbits?
- Toxicology, Dermatology
- Biomedical research
- Atherosclerosis
- Cardiovascular
- Teratology
- Ophthalmology, Orthopedics
- Antibody Production
- Kidney research
- Experimental studies of fever, antipyretics, and examination of pyrogens
How to Pick the Best Rabbit for Your Study?
Choosing the right animal model is critical to the success of your research. Our scientists consider several factors, including research objectives, economic feasibility, genetic stability, and adaptability, to help you pick the best rabbit model for your needs.
How to Monitor and Maintain the Health of Lab Rabbits?
Animal models are evaluated quarterly using a comprehensive health monitoring program that includes bacteriology, parasitology, pathology, and serology. The New Zealand white rabbit colony is also screened quarterly for Helicobacter using PCR and tested annually for infectogens.
Related Models
Browse our list of rabbit models