Brazilian laboratory rats and mice: decades pass, but parasite infections remain

Abstract

Rats and mice are the most used experimental models in research. Globally, animal houses are subjected to parasite outbreaks. In Brazil, the parasitological profile is used to reflect the sanitary condition of laboratory animals and must be monitored frequently. The present study developed an integrative review of scientific studies on the parasitological profile of rats and mice in animal facilities in Brazil. It identified the most prevalent parasite species reported in animal facilities from different geographic regions of the country, as well as factors contributing to the perpetuation of these parasites, and proposed measures to help prevent such infections. Based on the guiding question “which endoparasites and ectoparasites have already been identified in rat and mouse colonies in animal facilities in Brazil?” and considering inclusion and exclusion criteria, 28 studies published between 1974 and 2021 were selected in four scientific bases. These studies covered facilities in 12 Brazilian States, describing 16 genera of parasites in mice and 18 in rats. Most of the facilities in the selected studies were of the conventional type and with few sanitary barriers, and these conditions may favor the recurrence of parasites. Efforts are, therefore, necessary for institutions to have animal facilities in accordance with the legislation and practice optimal methodologies. The measures proposed in this article can contribute to change the panorama of parasites in the national animal facilities, aiming to safeguard the quality of scientific data and animal welfare.