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25 April 2026, Volume 46 Issue 2
Animal Models of Human Diseases
Guidelines for Selecting Preclinical Animal Models for Drugs and Stem Cell Therapies for Parkinson Disease (2026 Edition)
Committee of Experts on Medical Animal Experiments, Chinese Research Hospital Association, Committee of Regenerative Medicine Branch, Chinese Medicinal Biotech Association, HAN Fabin, CHEN Lin, CHEN Zhiguo, LU Ming, LI Yingjun
2026, 46(2):  153-177.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.073
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Parkinson disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease in middle-aged and elderly people. Its main clinical features include tremor at rest, bradykinesia, limb rigidity, abnormal posture and gait. In addition to motor dysfunction, most PD patients also show non-motor symptoms, including memory impairment, depression, pain, reduced olfaction, and sleep disorders. The etiology of PD has not been fully clarified, and its main pathological feature is the formation of Lewy bodies mainly composed of α-synuclein. Lewy bodies are not only present in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the midbrain, but can also spread to brain regions such as the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and the locus coeruleus, leading to degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. The diagnosis of PD mainly depends on clinical manifestations. Cranial CT and magnetic resonance imaging usually show no obvious abnormalities. Commonly used drugs for PD include levodopa and dopamine receptor agonists, and other therapies include deep brain stimulation and stem cell replacement therapy. Because the core pathological change in PD is the loss of midbrain-specific dopaminergic neurons, transplantation of neural stem cells or dopaminergic progenitor cells from different sources is currently the most promising therapeutic approach for PD. Before clinical application, drugs, novel instruments, and cell transplantation therapies all require preclinical studies using PD animal models to verify their efficacy and safety. Therefore, this guideline is developed under the leadership of the Committee of Experts on Medical Animal Experiments of the Chinese Research Hospital Association, in collaboration with nearly 70 experts from domestic universities, research institutes, and research-oriented hospitals, through four rounds of deliberation and three rounds of opinion solicitation and editorial revision. This guideline first reviews the etiology, clinical manifestations, and molecular mechanisms of PD, and then focuses on the commonly used PD animal models—including drug-induced (mouse, rat, and non-human primate) models and transgenic (mouse and rat) models—covering their modeling methods, mechanisms, evaluation approaches, and application scope, and summarizes the basic principles for preclinical evaluation of drug and stem cell therapies using these models. This guideline aims to provide theoretical and experimental guidance for selecting animal models in the development of new drugs and technologies for PD treatment, and to offer a reference framework for establishing standardized PD models and evaluation systems.

Influence of Antigen Type on the Establishment of an Induced Sjögren Syndrome Mouse Model
RONG Wenshuang, NIU Yuanfei, LIU Meiting, YANG Mengyuan, CUI Shuang, MA Lina, FU Yao, WANG Lianmei, CAO Junling
2026, 46(2):  178-190.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.175
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Objective This study aims to compare the modeling effects of submaxillary gland antigen and salivary gland antigen in the establishment of Sj?gren syndrome (SS) mouse models, and to characterize the phenotypic and immunological features of these models in comparison with spontaneous SS-prone non-obese diabetic (NOD)/LtJ mice. Methods Adult C57BL/6J mice (equal numbers of males and females) were immunized with submaxillary gland antigen or salivary gland antigen, respectively, combined with Freund's adjuvant to induce SS models. Mice immunized with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) combined with Freund's adjuvant served as the control group. Immunization was induced via multiple subcutaneous injections in the back with antigen combined with Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) on Days 1 and 7. A booster immunization was administered via multiple subcutaneous injections in the back with antigen combined with Freund's incomplete adjuvant (FIA) on Day 14. Female NOD/LtJ mice were used as the spontaneous SS model group, with ICR mice as the corresponding control strain for comparative analysis. Body weight, water intake, and salivary flow rate of mice were dynamically monitored for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, tissue and serum samples were collected, the weights of submaxillary glands, thymus, and spleen were measured, and organ indices (organ-to-body weight ratios) were calculated. Pathological morphological analysis of the submaxillary gland and spleen was performed with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Serum interleukin-17 (IL-17) level was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of SS type A (SSA) and SS type B (SSB) in submaxillary gland tissues. Results Female mice in the submaxillary gland antigen group exhibited significantly increased water intake (P<0.05) and reduced salivary flow rate (P<0.05) compared with the female control group. No statistically significant differences were observed in the submaxillary gland index, thymus index and spleen index (P>0.05). Focal lymphocytic infiltration was observed in the submaxillary glands, and the splenic marginal zone was enlarged. Serum IL-17 levels were significantly increased (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in submaxillary gland SSA/SSB expression levels (P>0.05). Compared with the female control group, female mice in the salivary gland antigen group showed no statistically significant differences in water intake, salivary flow rate, submaxillary gland index, and spleen index (P>0.05), whereas the thymus index was significantly reduced (P<0.01). Mild inflammatory cell infiltration and glandular atrophy were observed in the submaxillary glands, and the splenic white pulp and marginal zone were slightly enlarged. Serum IL-17 levels and submaxillary gland SSB mRNA expression levels were significantly increased (P<0.01), whereas no significant change was observed in submaxillary gland SSA expression levels (P>0.05). Compared with the male control group, mild submaxillary gland atrophy was observed in male mice in the submaxillary gland antigen group, whereas no obvious changes were found in other modeling-related indicators (P>0.05). Compared with the ICR control group, NOD/LtJ model mice exhibited elevated water intake (P<0.05), significantly reduced salivary flow rate (P<0.01), no significant differences in the submaxillary gland index or spleen index (P>0.05), but a significantly increased thymus index (P<0.05). Marked focal infiltration was observed in the submaxillary glands, the splenic marginal zone was obviously enlarged, and serum IL-17 concentrations as well as submaxillary gland SSA/SSB expression levels were significantly increased (P<0.05). Conclusion Submaxillary gland antigen and salivary gland antigen can induce SS-related features in female C57BL/6J mice. The SS-related phenotype is more pronounced in the submaxillary gland antigen group than in the salivary gland antigen group, but weaker than that in spontaneously SS-prone female NOD/LtJ mice. Immunization of male C57BL/6J mice with submaxillary or salivary gland antigens fails to induce an obvious SS phenotype.

Effects of Xiebai San on the Morphological Structures of Lung and Intestinal Tissues and Expression Levels of PI3K and Akt in Rats with Allergic Asthma
SONG Jing, YANG Zongtong, LI Xiaojing, LI Zifa, SU Fengyun, XU Dongchuan, SUI Zaiyun
2026, 46(2):  191-204.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.084
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Objective To investigate the mechanism by which Xiebai San regulates respiratory tract and intestinal mucosal immunity in rats with allergic asthma. Methods Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups based on body weight: control group, model group, positive control group, and Xiebai San group. The model group, positive control group, and Xiebai San group were sensitized with ovalbumin to establish a rat model of allergic asthma. From day 21 (the aerosol challenge phase), each group received daily gavage interventions simultaneously: the positive control group was administered dexamethasone (0.068 mg/kg), the Xiebai San group received Xiebai San solution (2 g/mL, 11.3 mL/kg), while the control and model groups were given an equal volume of normal saline, once daily for 14 consecutive days. After euthanasia, lung and intestinal tissues were collected. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe histopathological changes. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to examine tissue ultrastructure. Immunohistochemistry was applied to detect the positive reaction areas of phosphatidyl-inositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (Akt) proteins. Total protein and total RNA were extracted from lung and intestinal tissues, then the protein and mRNA expression levels of PI3K and Akt genes were detected by Western blotting and real-time quantitative PCR, respectively. Results Histopathological results showed alveolar emphysema accompanied by inflammatory cell infiltration, and intestinal mucosal injury with inflammatory cell infiltration in the model group as compared with the control group; the cellular structure of lung tissues was disrupted in the model group, with reduced organelles, while the ultrastructural lesions in the intestine were relatively mild. Compared with the model group, Xiebai San group exhibited milder pathological changes in lung tissues, with occasional alveolar wall damage and a small amount of inflammatory cell infiltration; the intestinal mucosal structure was improved, glands were arranged regularly, and pathological changes such as tissue loosening and inflammatory infiltration were alleviated; the cellular structure of lung tissues was relatively intact with reduced severity of lesions, and no ultrastructural pathological changes were observed in intestinal tissues. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting results showed that compared with the control group, the specific positive reaction areas of PI3K and Akt in lung and intestinal tissues were significantly increased in the model group (all P<0.001); meanwhile, the protein expression levels of PI3K and Akt were significantly upregulated (all P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the positive area of Akt protein in lung tissue was significantly reduced in the Xiebai San group (P<0.001), and the positive area of PI3K in intestinal tissue was also significantly decreased (P<0.000 1). Additionally, the protein expression levels of PI3K and Akt in lung and intestinal tissues were significantly downregulated (all P<0.01). Real-time quantitative PCR results showed that compared with the control group, the mRNA expression levels of PI3K and Akt genes in lung and intestinal tissues were significantly elevated in the model group (all P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the mRNA expression levels of PI3K and Akt genes in lung and intestinal tissues were significantly reduced in the Xiebai San group (all P<0.05). Conclusion Xiebai San exerts protective effects on rats with allergic asthma by inhibiting the expression of key nucleic acids and proteins in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in lung and intestinal tissues, improving the morphological structure of lung tissue, and maintaining intestinal mucosal integrity, and regulating intestinal mucosal immune function.

Inhibitory Effect of Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 5 Inhibitor JPH203 on Renal Fibrosis Induced by Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction in Mice
CUI Changwan, LU Yiping, YU Miao, WANG Shuang, WU Si, SUN Zhengrong
2026, 46(2):  205-211.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.092
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Objective To investigate the effect of solute carrier family 7 member 5 (SLC7A5) inhibitor JPH203 on renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction in mice. Methods Sixteen SPF male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group, with 8 mice in each group. The mouse model of renal fibrosis was established by unilateral ureteral obstruction. From the third day after surgery, the mice in the control group were intraperitoneally injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for 11 consecutive days, and the injection dose was 200 μL/d. Mice in the experimental group received intraperitoneal injection of JPH203 (50 mg/kg) every day for 11 days. On day 14, the mice were euthanized, then the kidney tissues were obtained. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to assess renal tissue damage, Masson staining was used to evaluate collagen fiber deposition in the extracellular matrix, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect the levels of fibroblast activation markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type Ⅰ (COL-Ⅰ) in kidney tissues. Western blotting was further performed to measure the expression levels of SLC7A5 and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), as well as the phosphorylation levels of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway-related molecules. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to verify changes in the mRNA levels of SLC7A5, α-SMA, and COL-Ⅰ in kidney tissues. Results Compared with the control group, the experimental group showed reduced destruction of renal tissue structure and a significantly lower pathological injury score (P<0.05). Additionally, collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix was decreased, and the percentage of collagen fiber area was significantly reduced (P<0.001) in the experimental group. The levels of fibroblast activation markers α-SMA and COL-Ⅰ were significantly lower in the experimental group (both P<0.001). The expression levels of SLC7A5 and TGF-β1 were also significantly decreased (P<0.001), and the phosphorylation levels of mTORC1 signaling pathway-related proteins 4E-BP1 and mTORC1 were significantly reduced (P<0.001). Real-time quantitative PCR confirmed that the mRNA levels of SLC7A5, α- SMA, and COL-Ⅰ in kidney tissues were significantly lower in the experimental group (P<0.001). Conclusion JPH203 may inhibit the progression of renal fibrosis in mice by suppressing SLC7A5 expression, regulating the mTORC1 signaling pathway, and altering fibroblast activation status.

Adra2a Regulates LPS-Induced Inflammation in Hepatocytes of Lbp-/- Mice via the MAPK Signaling Pathway
LIU Sai, FU Bin, LI Sidi, CHEN Zhida, ZHANG Yue, GUO Zhongkun, WANG Yongan, WANG Kezhou
2026, 46(2):  212-221.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.077
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Objective To investigate the mechanism by which adrenoceptor alpha 2A (Adra2a) regulates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in primary hepatocytes from lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) knockout mice (Lbp-/- ). Methods Primary hepatocytes from C57BL/6J and Lbp-/- mice were isolated using a two-step perfusion method. An in vitro inflammatory model was established by LPS stimulation, and an in vivo inflammatory mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of LPS. The in vitro experiments were grouped as follows: Control group, LPS group, BRL+LPS group, OE-NC+LPS group, and OE-Adra2a+LPS group. The Control group served as the blank control. The LPS group involved stimulating primary hepatocytes with LPS. The BRL+LPS group involved pretreating primary hepatocytes with BRL-44408 maleate followed by LPS stimulation. The OE-NC+LPS group involved transfecting primary hepatocytes with an empty vector followed by LPS stimulation. The OE-Adra2a+LPS group involved transfecting primary hepatocytes with a lentivirus overexpressing Adra2a, followed by LPS stimulation. The in vivo experimental groups were divided into Control', LPS', BRL+LPS', OE-NC+LPS', and OE-Adra2a+LPS' groups. The Control' group served as the blank control. The LPS' group received intraperitoneal injection of LPS. The BRL+LPS' group received intraperitoneal injection of BRL-44408 maleate for pretreatment, followed by LPS injection. The OE-NC+LPS' group received intraperitoneal injection of empty vector for pretreatment, followed by LPS injection. The OE-Adra2a+LPS' group received intraperitoneal injection of a lentivirus overexpressing Adra2a for pretreatment, followed by LPS injection. Cell viability after Adra2a inhibition and overexpression was assessed via the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. RT-qPCR measured changes in gene expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) after Adra2a inhibition and overexpression. Western blotting was performed to detect Adra2a protein expression and phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) following LPS stimulation. Results In vitro experiments revealed that LPS stimulation significantly decreased Adra2a protein expression in primary hepatocytes from C57BL/6J mice compared to the Control group (P<0.05), whereas it increased in primary hepatocytes from Lbp-/- mice (P<0.001). Compared to the LPS group, the BRL+LPS group exhibited significantly increased cell viability (P<0.01), reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β gene transcription levels (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.001), and decreased phosphorylation levels of MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins ERK1/2, p38, and JNK (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.001). Compared with the OE-NC+LPS group, the OE-Adra2a+LPS group showed significantly decreased cell viability (P<0.001), increased gene transcription levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β genes (P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.001), and elevated phosphorylation levels of MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins ERK1/2, p38, and JNK (P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.001). In vivo experiments showed that, compared with the LPS' group, the BRL+LPS' group exhibited significantly reduced phosphorylation levels of MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins ERK1/2, p38, and JNK (P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.01). In the OE-Adra2a+LPS' group, the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK were significantly elevated compared to the OE-NC+LPS' group (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.01). Conclusion LPS stimulation can cause a significant increase in Adra2a protein expression in primary hepatocytes of Lbp-/- mice. Adra2a protein can regulate the level of LPS-induced inflammation in primary hepatocytes of Lbp-/- mice through the MAPK signaling pathway.

Facilities and Management for Laboratory Animals
Monitoring and Analysis of Environmental Microbial Contamination in Laboratory Animal Barrier Facilities
WANG Ying, JI Wentao, XU Shaoqiong, CHEN Guoyuan, FENG Jie, WU Baojin
2026, 46(2):  222-230.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.087
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Objective To investigate microbial contamination status and distribution characteristics in laboratory animal barrier facilities, so as to provide a scientific basis for environmental quality control in barrier facilities. Methods In accordance with the national standard "Laboratory Animals—Environment and Housing Facilities" and the "Standard Operating Procedures" of the barrier facility, bacterial monitoring was performed on samples of air-settling bacteria, materials, and personnel gloves in the single-corridor barrier facility of the Animal Core Facility, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CEMCS). The monitoring data from January 2020 to December 2024 were collected, organized and statistically analyzed, and partial samples were subjected to species identification using PCR and sequencing methods. Results A total of 7 898 samples were collected from 2020 to 2024, including 3 175 air-settling bacteria samples, 3 353 material samples, and 1 370 glove samples. The overall compliance rate was 95.7% (7 559/7 898), among which the compliance rate of air-settling bacteria was 97.1% (3 084/3 175), that of materials was 93.2% (3 125/3 353), and that of personnel gloves was 98.5% (1 350/1 370). Over the five years, the compliance rates of all three types of monitored samples were above 90%. There were statistically significant differences in the compliance rates of air-settling bacteria and material samples among different quarters (P<0.05). Further investigation was conducted on samples collected from January to March 2024, and 190 bacterial strains were obtained through isolation and culture, including 126 strains from air-settling bacteria, 52 strains from materials, and 12 strains from personnel gloves. The strains were identified by PCR amplification and sequencing, and the 190 bacterial strains belonged to 9 genera and 20 species. Gram-positive bacteria accounted for the majority, with Staphylococcus as the dominant genus, accounting for 77.9% (148/190). Conclusion Microorganisms carried by air, materials, and personnel gloves in barrier facilities are mainly Gram-positive bacteria. Regular monitoring of air-settling bacteria, materials, and personnel gloves in barrier facilities enables timely detection and control of potential risks during husbandry management and facility operation, which is of great significance for maintaining the sound operation of the barrier facility system and ensuring the quality of animal experiments.

Design and Application of an Information Management System for Experimental Marmosets
WANG Chen, LI Xuebo, HE Donghua, CHANG Liangtang
2026, 46(2):  231-241.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.089
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The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a primate species belonging to the genus Callithrix in the family Callitrichidae, has multiple advantages including small body size, short reproductive cycle, early sexual maturity, 1-3 offspring per litter, and ease of experimental manipulation. It also exhibits behavioral characteristics such as vocal communication and strict monogamy. Common marmosets present unique advantages in neuroscience and brain disease research and are widely used in biomedical fields including neuroscience, gene editing, and ethology. Experimental common marmosets (hereinafter referred to as "experimental marmosets") require management of breeding and use to ensure traceable pedigrees and prevention of inbreeding. Existing management systems developed for rodents or Macaca often cannot effectively meet the practical needs of experimental marmoset management in key aspects such as pedigree tracking and inbreeding warning. To address this issue, the Laboratory Animal Center of the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (hereinafter referred to as "the Center") designed and developed a second-generation information management system for marmosets in 2021 based on its first-generation information management system, and the second-generation system was launched in 2023. This second-generation system adopts a B/S architecture, is modular, and features front-end and back-end separation. It uses mainstream technical frameworks, including Spring Boot, MySQL, and Redis, and integrates 16 functional modules such as basic information, pedigree tree, breeding and experimental selection database, microchip identification management, and ethical supervision. Compared with the first-generation system, the second-generation system optimizes the pedigree tree and basic information modules. It also adds new functions, including purpose-based database partitioning, animal status tracking, abnormal alerts, automatic microchip identification task generation, inbreeding warning, ethical document upload and review, and record management. Together, these form a systematic and refined management and service system covering the entire breeding and experimental use of experimental marmosets. From 2023 to 2025, the practical application at the center shows that it has significantly improved the management efficiency and service level of the experimental marmoset management unit, and can provide a reference for the development of information management systems in other institutions using marmosets.

Biological Risk Control for Infectious Experiments in Cats in Animal Biosafety Level 2 Laboratory
ZHAO He, ZHANG Tao, XIAO Yuzhou, LI Li, AN Xuefang, ZHANG Fan
2026, 46(2):  242-250.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.090
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Cats, owing to their physiological and immunological similarities with humans, have become increasingly valuable as model animals in virology research, drug development, and vaccine evaluation. They are irreplaceable in studies of feline immunodeficiency virus, feline coronavirus, and other related pathogens. However, cats are temperamentally sensitive, exhibit strong stress responses, and possess well-developed nervous systems as well as sharp claws and teeth. Consequently, the biosafety risks associated with infectious experiments using cats in animal biosafety level 2 laboratory (ABSL-2) are significantly higher than those encountered with conventional rodents. Drawing on long-term ABSL-2 operational experience, this article systematically reviews the entire workflow of infectious experiments in laboratory cats — from animal selection, pre-entry preparation, reception and quarantine, housing management, to infectious experimental procedures and incident response — identifying and addressing critical risk points at each stage. For strain selection, SPF-grade shorthair cats with defined genetic backgrounds and docile temperaments are recommended; sex and age should be scientifically matched to experimental objectives. During pre-entry preparation, emphasis is placed on dual-credential personnel management, health surveillance, standardized disinfection of environments and cages, feed and water standards, and robust record-keeping. During reception and quarantine, standardized protocols are established for transport control, appearance inspection, isolation quarantine, pathogen exclusion, and positive-reinforcement training. During infectious experimentation, a "three-fixed" husbandry principle is clearly implemented: dedicated caretakers, fixed feeding/cleaning times, and fixed cage positions. Disinfectant selection, autoclaving of waste, and daily veterinary rounds are rigorously enforced. Operational risk control includes detailed measures for graded personal protection, animal anesthesia and restraint, zoned operation within biosafety cabinets, and disposal of experimental waste. Contingency plans are formulated to address animal death, escape, personnel exposure, and spills of infectious materials. This study provides a reproducible and scalable technical pathway and operational standard for conducting infectious experiments in laboratory cats in ABSL-2 laboratories, offering a reference for other facilities undertaking similar work.

Optimization of Cage-Changing Intervals and Wood Shavings Usage for Mice During the Growth Phase in Breeding Systems
WU Xianwen, LIU Lili, CHEN Ye, XU Guoheng
2026, 46(2):  251-260.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.095
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Objective To determine the optimal bedding depth of wood shavings and cage-changing interval for post-weaning (21-day-old) SPF C57BL/6J mice housed in open cages within a barrier environment. Methods Three bedding groups with average depths of 3 cm, 4 cm, and 5 cm were established, forming six experimental groups (three groups each for female and male mice, with 60 mice per group and 20 mice per cage, totaling 18 cages). The mice were housed in accordance with the maximum housing density requirements specified in GB 14925—2023 Laboratory Animal—Environment and Housing Facilities. Indicators, including body weight, food intake, waste load, and bedding cleanliness, were continuously monitored in mice aged 21-54 days. Results At the age of 21-54 days, the body weight of male mice in the 4 cm bedding group at 42 days was significantly higher than that in the 3 cm and 5 cm groups (P<0.01); at the age of 45-54 days, the waste load of male mice in the 4 cm group was significantly higher than that in the 3 cm group (P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in body weight, feed intake and waste load of female mice among each bedding height group (P>0.05). Gender comparison showed that the body weight, feed intake and waste load of male mice were significantly higher than those of female mice at multiple age groups (P<0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference in cleanliness scores between female and male mice (P>0.05). The scores of mice in the 3 cm and 4 cm groups were close to 3 points from day 6 to day 12, and the scores of mice in the 5 cm group were close to 3 points on day 12. After 42 days of age, the cleanliness scores of each group increased rapidly, and the cage change cycle needed to be shortened to 4 days. Comprehensive recommendation: the cage change cycle for 3 cm and 4 cm bedding heights is 6 days, and it can be extended to 12 days at a height of 5 cm bedding, and shortened to 4 days after 42 days of age. Conclusion Under the open-cage housing mode, a bedding depth of 4 cm combined with a 6-day cage-changing interval during the growth phase can maintain cage cleanliness through bedding adsorption while optimizing the use of bedding resources. This protocol successfully balances animal welfare assurance with facility operational efficiency and is suitable for the large-scale management of C57BL/6J mice and inbred strains with similar genetic backgrounds.

Animal Experimental Techniques and Methods
Evaluation of the Histological Staining Performance of Rat Eyeball Sections Prepared Using a Self-Developed Fixative
TANG Xiaohang, GU Yingmin, LÜ Yangyang, HUANG Mingshu, TIAN Xuesong
2026, 46(2):  261-270.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.083
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Objective To compare the histological staining performance of four various tissue fixatives, including a self-developed fixative, for preparing paraffin sections of rat eyeball tissue. Methods Twenty 5-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=5 per group). After anesthesia by intraperitoneal injection of Zoletil? 50 at a dose of 45 mg/kg body weight, the rats were euthanized by exsanguination via the abdominal aorta. Bilateral eyeballs were carefully extracted intact and fixed for 72 h in 10% formaldehyde fixative, glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde mixed fixative, Davidson's fixative, and self-developed fixative, respectively. After fixation, the eyeballs were longitudinally sectioned along the optic nerve, with the portions containing the optic nerve preserved. The tissues were then dehydrated, embedded, and sectioned. Following hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, histological staining quality was compared among ocular structures including the cornea, lens, and retina. Results The overall appearance of rat eyeballs showed marked shrinkage in the 10% formaldehyde group and the glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde group, whereas the eye morphology remained round and intact in the modified Davidson's fixative group and self-developed fixative group. The corneal stroma exhibited obvious rupture, and the cells were arranged in folded arrangement in the modified Davidson's fixative group, 10% formaldehyde group, and self-developed fixative group. In contrast, the corneal cells in the glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde group were neatly arranged, showing no rupture or folding, and exhibited clear staining, indicating the highest quality of corneal sectioning among all groups. In the 10% formaldehyde group, cracks were observed in the equatorial and cortical regions of the lens, but the lens fiber structure remained intact. The lenses in the modified Davidson's fixative group showed extensive rupture and detachment. The glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde group displayed only slight cracks at the equator. In the self-developed fixative group, mild red folding was limited to the peripheral lens region, with the remaining structures intact and unbroken. These findings indicated that the glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde and self-developed fixative groups achieved the best lens sectioning quality. The retina was severely detached from the choroid/sclera layer, with extensive rupture of each cellular layer in the 10% formaldehyde fixative group. In the glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde group, partial detachment between the retina and choroid/sclera was observed. The outer plexiform layer and nerve fiber layer showed separation with edema, while the cells in all layers were neatly arranged. In both the Davidson's fixative and the self-developed fixative groups, the retina remained intact without rupture, and no structural separation was observed in any layer. Both demonstrated advantages in preserving the integrity and orderly arrangement of all retinal layers; however, the self-developed fixative group exhibited greater contrast. Conclusion The choice of fixative significantly affects the morphological preservation of various structures in the rat eye. The self-developed fixative demonstrates the best overall performance in maintaining overall eye morphology, the structural integrity of the lens, and retinal adhesion. For studies focusing solely on the corneal structure, the glutaraldehyde-formaldehyde mixed fixative is recommended. The 10% formaldehyde fixative exhibits unsatisfactory fixation effects for all the aforementioned ocular structures and is not recommended for detailed morphological studies of eyeball tissues.

Enhancement Effect of Porcine Inhibin Polyclonal Antibody on Superovulation in C57BL/6J Mice
ZHAO He, ZHANG Tao, LI Li, XIAO Yuzhou, AN Xuefang, ZHANG Fan
2026, 46(2):  271-278.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.088
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Objective To prepare rabbit anti-porcine inhibin polypeptide-keyhole limpet hemocyanin(KLH) conjugated polyclonal antibody and evaluate its effect on superovulation in C57BL/6J mice. Methods New Zealand white rabbits were immunized with a synthesized porcine inhibin polypeptide conjugated with KLH to produce anti-inhibin serum (AIS, i.e., inhibin polyclonal antibody). Female C57BL/6J mice received intraperitoneal injections of purified AIS in combination with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG), followed by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) after 48 hours to induce superovulation. Oocytes obtained from superovulation were collected and counted 15 hours post-hCG administration, and the number of 2-cell embryos was assessed 24 hours after in vitro fertilization. Results AIS prepared by immunizing New Zealand White rabbits with KLH-conjugated porcine inhibin polypeptide was subjected to titer determination by indirect ELISA, showing titers reaching 1∶ 512 000. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of ammonium sulfate-purified AIS revealed distinct 50 kDa and 25 kDa bands corresponding to the theoretical molecular weights of IgG antibody heavy and light chains, confirming successful production of porcine inhibin polyclonal antibody. Compared with conventional superovulation methods, AIS diluted 10-fold combined with PMSG significantly increased the number of oocytes obtained from superovulation in mice (P<0.05) by approximately 1.5-fold. Conclusion Porcine inhibin polyclonal antibody, as an improved superovulation reagent, can improve superovulation efficiency in C57BL/6J mice, and shows promising prospects for future applications.

Educational and Teaching Practices
Analysis of Current Practices and Exploration of Alternative Technologies in Use of Laboratory Animals for Minimally Invasive Surgery Education and Training
LIU Yishu, CAI Liping
2026, 46(2):  279-287.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.101
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Currently, the rapid development of minimally invasive surgical techniques poses significant challenges to the traditional surgical education and training system. The teaching model relying on laboratory animals is facing the need for transformation due to ethical controversies, high costs, and limitations of the model. Through a combined approach of systematic literature analysis and summarization of practical experience at the Da Vinci Surgical Robot Training Center at the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, this study systematically evaluated the multidimensional efficacy of laboratory animals in training for the Da Vinci robot operating system and laparoscopic techniques. The results indicate that, under current technological conditions, laboratory animals—leveraging their advantages of authentic tissue tactile feedback, dynamic physiological responses, and the ability to be trained under complex surgical field exposure—remain the core modality for cultivating advanced surgical skills (such as vascular dissection and mobilization, organ suturing, etc.). Their irreplaceability lies primarily in key training aspects such as simulating intraoperative dynamic physiological responses and handling intraoperative emergencies. Based on interdisciplinary technical assessment and practical observation, the authors propose and construct an "Ethics-Technology Synergy" development framework. They further explore the innovative value of the virtual-real interaction mechanism in extended reality technology, the construction of pathological simulation platforms using organoid models, and the resource coordination mechanism of digital sharing platforms. Using application cases from the training center, the study verifies the potential of these technologies to form a "stepwise replacement" pathway for laboratory animals. It also highlights their key breakthroughs in standardized scenario replication, improved tactile simulation accuracy, and reduced laboratory animal usage. This study emphasizes that the transformation of the minimally invasive surgical education and training system is not only a technological innovation but also an advancement of ethical concepts. The "Ethics-Technology Synergy" pathway requires focusing on three key implementation areas: constructing a multi-modal hybrid training system from the perspective of technological integration; establishing a collaborative biological specimen sharing network from the perspective of resource management; and refining standards for assessing the necessity of animal use from the perspective of ethical practice. This provides an actionable pathway for building a new training paradigm that balances technical efficacy with ethical compliance, thereby promoting the transformation of surgical education towards precision and minimal harm.

Construction and Practice of AI-Based Triadic Interactive Teaching Model for Surgical Animal Surgery
MAO Kaikai, LI Xiu, ZHOU Chen, SANG Jianfeng, WANG Meng, ZHANG Guang, ZHAO Xiaozhi
2026, 46(2):  288-296.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.080
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Objective In the context of the digital transformation of education, this study aims to construct a triadic interactive teaching model for surgical animal surgery in clinical medicine using modern information technology. It explores the effectiveness of different teaching methods in improving students' practical skills, aseptic awareness, and teamwork abilities, providing a reference for the reform of clinical practice education. Methods A quasi-experimental research design was adopted. A total of 80 students from the eight-year clinical medicine program at Nanjing University were selected, including the Class of 2020 (control group, n=40) and the Class of 2021 (experimental group, n=40). The control group received traditional teaching methods, while the experimental group implemented the "Teacher-Student-AI" triadic interactive teaching model. This model utilized a smart teaching platform for personalized pre-class preparation, as well as data-driven post-class review and feedback throughout the entire teaching process. The "assessment indicators and scoring criteria for the surgical animal surgery course" were used to evaluate teaching effectiveness, with independent samples t-tests used for statistical analysis. Results Pre-course assessments revealed no statistically significant differences in baseline theoretical knowledge or practical skills between the two groups (P>0.05). Upon completion of the course, the experimental group achieved higher scores than the control group across three key dimensions: practical skills (47.98±1.34 vs 46.92±2.51, P=0.022), aseptic awareness (17.84±1.16 vs 16.94±2.29, P=0.029), and teamwork (16.82±1.44 vs 15.95±1.22, P=0.004). However, no statistically significant difference was observed in the scores for humane care awareness between the two groups (8.24±0.70 vs 8.16±0.53, P=0.589). Conclusion The AI-based triadic interactive teaching model can, to some extent, address the limitations of traditional surgical animal surgery education. It plays a positive role in enhancing medical students' surgical skills, aseptic awareness, and collaborative abilities. This model facilitates the transition from traditional to personalized teaching and offers a practical framework for the digital reform of clinical practice education.

Comparative Biomedicine
Advances in Animal Models for Biolinguistic Research
LI Hui
2026, 46(2):  297-305.  DOI: 10.12300/j.issn.1674-5817.2025.098
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Biolinguistics is an interdisciplinary discipline dedicated to exploring the biological foundation of human language and its origin. Speech and language disorders along with the language evolution are the centers of biolinguistics. Recently, the study of the vocal behavior of animals by neuroimaging, neurophysiological technologies as well as identifying and manipulating specific neural circuits by the cellular and molecular technologies has significantly advanced the understanding of the neurobiology of human language. This paper takes three types of prevalent speech and language disorders-developmental dyslexia, post-stroke aphasia and autism spectrum disorder-as examples to review how the researchers constructed the knockout mice, middle-cerebral-artery-occlusion rats and songbird models to simulate the endophenotypes like auditory processing, neural migration, brain lateralization and ultrasonic vocalization so as to reveal the functions of the candidate genes like KIAA0319,astrotactin 2 and how neuroplasticity contributes to the restructuring of linguistic function. Regarding the language evolution, this paper focuses on how the research of primates and songbirds elucidates the coevolutionary path of human language in terms of anatomical structure, neural mechanism and cognition, as well as the multi-modal origin. These studies lead to the findings like "anatomical simplification leads to the neurocognitive complexification" and "the gesture, language,and music are intertwined in terms of origin". At the end of the paper, the challenges regarding ethics and cross-species translation are discussed. Future research needs to adhere to "3R" principles and construct multi-species joint validation systems, and integrate the frontier technologies such as pluripotent stem cell models and brain organoids.

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