Refinements in diabetic research – a technician led initiative (2025)

Hill, C., Lyons, C.

Abstract

A genetically altered diabetic mouse model (Ins2akita) was introduced to the facility two years ago. From information available, it was expected that heterozygous animals would develop hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinemia, polydipsia and polyuria by 3 to 4 weeks old with males exhibiting a more advanced phenotype in comparison to females. As the colony grew and the animals aged, we as Animal Technicians noticed subtle behaviours and identified ways to refine our husbandry practices to better support their welfare.