Albino Wistar Rats: Advantages and Limitations in Biomedical Research

Abstract Albino Wistar rats refer to a strain of the Wistar rats which is part of the Norway rat species; it is a popular animal model in many areas of research specifically in neuroscience, pharmacology, and toxicology among others. These rats are particularly valuable due to their high level of genetic homogeneity, ease of handling, and reproducible results which have kept them in the list of requirements for researchers who want to minimize extraneous variables in their studies. One can bet on the fact that the Albino Wistar rats are inbred, and therefore, even their genetic disposition is normalized. Wistar rats originated from the United States of America in the 19 th century. In several generations of breeding, this rat strain was used to establish desired characteristics, which resulted in greatly reduced genetic variability. Thus, throughout the whole process of the research, one can be sure that the results of the study will not have any relation to the genetic differences of the participants. In addition, Albino Wistar rats are a kind of animal that is inoffensive and takes well to experimental environment. This ensures that the animals do not have to be subdued or fought before getting a sample and the process does not have to stress the animals or the researcher. Furthermore, they have a shorter gestation period, approximately 21 days, and a short existence of approximately 2 years. Such features make Albino Wistar rats suitable to be used by researchers who would wish to get a fast result or those who have a small budget. It should also be pointed out, although, that there are some drawbacks in employing Albino Wistar rats as animal subjects as well. The following is the major drawback; they are prone to certain diseases for example infections and some types of tumors. It means that the studied population may have higher sensitivity to disease and its manifestations, which may influence the results of studies, when disease processes or potential treatments are examined. The other limitation is that Albino Wistar rat has a relatively shorter life span than any other strain of rats. Reduced life expectancy can also reduce the possibilities of research, especially in trials concerned with aging or late outcomes of interventions. Experimentalists must put these aspects into consideration when choosing their sample and the type of animals to use. Nevertheless, despite these drawbacks, Wistar rats still can be considered valuable source for the researchers taking into account all the mentioned advantages. Because of their high reproducibility, ease of handling, genetic uniformity, and ability to adapt to the laboratory conditions, they provide a perfect model for dissecting complex biological functions and generating new models for diseases affecting mankind. Due to the advancement in scientific knowledge and technology, the researchers may 1 day overcome the said-named limitations associated with the use of Albino Wistar rats as animal models.