Zebrafish larvae are raised from eggs to eventually become breeding adult fish that provide embryos for research studies. The transparent bodies of these young fish allow for non-invasive assessment of organ and tissue changes, something that is not possible with mammals. Their transparency is very helpful when conducting safety and…
View and ShareZebrafish embryos are transparent and they also develop quickly. These particular embryos are shown twenty-four hours after fertilization. Each week, a breeding pair of adult zebrafish generate hundreds of embryos that can be used to study the safety and efficacy of new medications. The use of these embryos has helped…
View and ShareDogs, although one of the least common animals needed for research, are among the most important. Many cancers in dogs are identical, or almost identical, to human cancers. The cancer in dogs often develops faster, making them an ideal model to see if a certain therapy is effective. Many breeds…
Visit Species PageEmbryonic development takes place rapidly. It is also a key area of study during drug safety testing. This photo shows thirty-day-old zebrafish embryos. Because they are transparent, researchers can easily monitor the development of the embryo from fertilization to when it hatches as larval fish. The embryo in the middle…
View and ShareNIH-funded preclinical study suggests drug may be ready for early stage clinical trials.
Read MoreA zebrafish larva is an immature form of an adult fish. In this photo, you see a seven-day-old zebrafish larvae, around the size of a quarter, swimming in water. Approximately twelve larvae live in each small test well. Test substances, such as potential new medications, are dissolved in the water…
View and ShareLove, Care, Progress: Research Involving Dogs is the inaugural video in the Love, Care, Progress series, focused on the important role of canines in health research which benefits humans and dogs alike. Research professionals, including a trainer, scientist, animal behaviorist, surgical manager, and veterinarian talk about caring for the animals…
View and ShareA rhesus macaque mom climbs into a hammock with her infant at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Females reach puberty at around age three, while males are sexually mature by age four. Gestation is five and a half months, with one infant born at a time and often a year or…
View and ShareEnvironmental enrichment is an important part of caring for research animals. Research animals are provided with several types of enrichment to stimulate species-typical behaviors. These juvenile rhesus macaques are enjoying mini marshmallow treats. Interactions with their caregiver give them social and intellectual stimulation, while strengthening their bonds with each other.…
View and ShareRhesus monkeys getting treats from their caregiver at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Healthy treats can include peanuts, grapes, apple slices, etc. Positive reinforcement is used to train the monkeys to move to transport boxes. These boxes safely carry monkeys to procedure rooms for blood draws, ultrasounds, TB tests, and…
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