Choosing the right animal model for infectious disease research.

A complex biological system is often required to study the myriad of host-pathogen interactions associated with infectious diseases, especially since the current basis of biology has reached the molecular level. The use of animal models is important for understanding the very complex temporal relationships that occur in infectious disease involving the body, its neuroendocrine and immune systems and the infectious organism. Because of these complex interactions, the choice of animal model must be a thoughtful and clearly defined process in order to provide relevant, translatable scientific data and to ensure the most beneficial use of the animals.

Common Challenges in Safety: A Review and Analysis of AAALAC Findings.

The 8th edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide) is clear in its requirement for each institution to establish and maintain an occupational health and safety (OHS) program as an essential part of the overall program of animal care and use. For over 30 years, AAALAC International has utilized a variety of methods to evaluate this component of OHS programs as part of the accreditation process. AAALAC International began collecting data on site visit findings over 20 years ago using the Guide as a template for establishing the categories and subcategories to which findings are assigned.

Using Telemetry Data to Refine Endpoints for New Zealand White Rabbits Challenged with .

We used a continuous-monitoring digital telemetry system to investigate temperature response in New Zealand White rabbits after inhalation or subcutaneous challenge with Bacillus anthracis. Two spore preparations of B. anthracis Ames A2084 were evaluated by using a nose-only inhalation model, and 2 strains, B.

Challenges and Opportunities in Implementation: The AAALAC International Perspective.

In spite of the increasing trend for local authorities and international organization to follow the same ethical principles, the regulatory framework on the protection, care, and use of research animals is still heterogeneous. Differences across geopolitical areas exist not only at the legal level but, more important, also at the level of implementation of the existing regulations. In this diverse landscape, AAALAC International uses performance standards to assure harmonization of accredited animal care and use programs globally.