The IACUC, Mating Systems for Rodents, and The Macro and Microenvironments

Laboratory Animal Medicine and Nursing
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Laboratory Animal Medicine and Nursing
Part A
1 The IACUC’s main function is to oversee the use and care of laboratory animals in an institution. Its key responsibilities include reviewing and inspecting an institution's animal use and care program and facilities, respectively (Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), 2021). It is also responsible for reviewing animal welfare concerns, preparing reports and making recommendations to the Institutional Official (IO), and suspending any animal activities in the institution. The IACUC comprises at least five members: an animal research scientist, a veterinarian trained in laboratory animal science, a member with nonscientific concerns, and a member with no affiliations with the institution (OLAW, 2021).
2 Rodent breeding systems include monogamous, polygamous, and colony. Monogamous mating involves putting a male and a female together (Tanaka & Vong, 2020). It provides the most accurate breeding data and is easier to track rats’ pedigrees. However, poor choice of a mate can affect the offspring. Polygamous mating involves putting one male and multiple females together temporarily (Tanaka & Vong, 2020). The females are removed when they become pregnant. It requires fewer males. However, it is difficult to keep track because of the absence of male parentage. Colony/harem mating involves putting one male and multiple females permanently (Tanaka & Vong, 2020). It produces the maximum number of offspring due to postpartum pregnancies. However, it places a strain on the mother due to nonstop pregnancies.
3 Micro-environment refers to the conditions inside an animal's housing. It is the primary enclosure for the animal and, as such, comprises the environment in which the animal is directly in contact with its immediate surrounding (Weichbrod et al., 2018). It includes noise, air, temperature, light, and humidity. In contrast, macro-environment refers to the environment outside the animal house. It is the secondary enclosure for the animal (Weichbrod et al., 2018). It includes the pasture, barn, or room. However, the micro- and macro-environment can be similar in open caging systems or natural housing.
4 The prevention of the transmission of disease from wild animals to veterinary staff and clinical animals requires appropriate animal sourcing and protective measures. Appropriate steps include sourcing laboratory animals from colonies with known disease status and history, using personal protective equipment when handling animals, and practicing effective animal wound care (Weichbrod et al., 2018). Staff should also thoroughly wash their hands when leaving an animal facility. The staff should be sufficiently trained on the necessary steps to ensure their safety and that of the clinical animals.
Part B
1 AALAS stands for the American Association for Laborat...