ALAT ALAT Species-Specific Care and Experimental Models Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which species is most commonly used as a model for cardiovascular disease research in US biomedical laboratories?

Accepted Answer

Rabbit

Answer

Rabbits are frequently used in cardiovascular research due to their lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis susceptibility resembling humans.

Question 2

What is a unique feature of guinea pig nutrition that must be considered in their care?

Accepted Answer

They cannot synthesize vitamin C and must receive dietary supplementation

Answer

Guinea pigs, like humans, lack the enzyme to synthesize vitamin C and must receive it through fresh vegetables, supplements, or fortified feed.

Question 3

Which characteristic distinguishes an athymic nude mouse from a standard inbred mouse?

Accepted Answer

It lacks a functional immune system due to absence of T cells

Answer

Athymic nude mice lack a thymus and therefore lack mature T cells, making them immunodeficient and valuable for xenograft tumor models.

Question 4

What is the normal gestation period for a mouse?

Accepted Answer

19–21 days

Answer

The gestation period for mice is approximately 19–21 days, making them efficient breeding models in research.

Question 5

In which species is the 'Harderian gland' significant, often producing red-tinged secretion (chromodacryorrhea) when stressed?

Accepted Answer

Rat

Answer

Rats have a Harderian gland behind the eye that produces porphyrin-containing secretion; when stressed or ill, red discharge (chromodacryorrhea) appears around eyes and nose.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT ALAT Species-Specific Care and Experimental Models Questions and Answers