Anatomic and physiologic characterization of the WF/PmWp-"fz" (fuzzy) rat.

The WF/PmWp-"fz" rat is an inbred strain of hypotrichotic rat derived from a Wistar Furth colony. This strain, also known as the "fuzzy rat," has been used for dermal toxicity research; however, little is known about its longevity and age-related physiologic and pathologic changes. Presented are basic anatomic and physiologic parameters, collected for each sex at five ages, including hematologic and clinical biochemical profiles, organ and body weights, and a characterization of gross and histopathologic findings.

Antigen delivery to gut associated lymphoid tissue of rabbits.

A rabbit model was developed so that antigens, microbes or potential mucosal vaccines could be delivered in multiple doses directly to the luminal surface of the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) located in the cecal appendix. A polyethylene catheter was implanted surgically into the tip of the appendix. It exited the body wall and progressed subcutaneously around the thorax to the dorsocervical region where it was attached to a subcutaneous obturator.

Preparation and care of the area postrema-lesioned cat.

The area postrema (AP) is being widely studied to delineate its role in such varied functions as blood pressure regulation, conditioned taste aversion, water and energy balance, and radiation-induced emesis. This paper describes the preoperative preparation, surgical procedure, and postoperative care of cats kept long-term in which the AP was lesioned by electrocautery. A dorsal midline approach under gas anesthesia allowed access to selectively lesion the AP.