ABSTRACT
Since its publication in 1996, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (National Research Council, Washington DC, National Academy Press) has become a primary source of information for institutional animal care and use committees (IACUCs) and research facility managers. In the ensuing years, recommendations relating to laboratory animal care have evolved in response to new scientific information and use of new technology such as ventilated caging. In this article, recent publications are examined to determine the potential impact of new scientific evidence on current practices for the housing and care of laboratory rodents. The discussion points out recent advances in technology and new knowledge of the conditions for the housing of various laboratory rodents, including cage space, single versus group housing, ventilated caging systems, thermoregulation, bedding materials, and enrichment. This new information is provided to aid IACUCs and facility managers in making decisions regarding the housing and care of laboratory rodents.
Subject(s)
Animals, Laboratory , Housing, Animal/standards , Animal Welfare , Animals , Bedding and Linens/veterinary , Female , Male , Mice , Rats , Social Environment , Temperature , Ventilation/methodsABSTRACT
In recent years, there has been an increase in research with biological agents, particularly those that pose a potential for use by terrorists. In this environment, laws have been enacted and regulations developed to ensure the appropriate use of specified "select agents and toxins" for legitimate research. Within this regulatory environment, it has been necessary for institutions and investigators to adapt to an entirely new set of requirements to begin or continue to work with these pathogens. Registration and approval for use of select agents and toxins, security and safety requirements, and daunting record-keeping requirements are only some of the regulatory challenges that researchers face in working with these agents. A brief overview of recent regulations is presented, as well as where to obtain additional information on regulations, standards, and guidelines related to work with select agents and toxins.
