How do you conduct an experiment on rats? - briefly
Obtain IACUC approval, acquire healthy rats, acclimate them, randomize into control and experimental groups, and administer the intervention under standardized conditions. Record predefined endpoints, analyze data statistically, and follow humane euthanasia guidelines.
How do you conduct an experiment on rats? - in detail
A rat study requires careful planning, ethical approval, and precise execution. Begin with a clear hypothesis and define primary and secondary outcomes. Design the experimental protocol to include control and experimental groups, ensuring sufficient sample size for statistical power.
Obtain institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) approval before any handling. Prepare a detailed animal welfare plan that covers housing conditions, enrichment, health monitoring, and humane endpoints.
Select an appropriate strain, age, and sex of rodents to match the research question. Acclimate animals for at least one week in a controlled environment (temperature 20‑24 °C, humidity 40‑60 %, 12 h light/dark cycle). Provide standard chow and water ad libitum unless specific dietary manipulations are required.
Implement the experimental procedures as follows:
- Randomize subjects into groups using a computer‑generated schedule to prevent allocation bias.
- Blind personnel who assess outcomes to group assignments whenever possible.
- Administer interventions (e.g., drug, surgery, behavioral test) using calibrated equipment and sterile technique.
- Record dosage, route of administration, and timing with exact timestamps.
- Monitor physiological parameters (body weight, temperature, activity) daily and document any adverse events.
Data collection must follow validated methods. For behavioral assays, use automated tracking software to reduce observer bias. For biochemical analyses, collect tissue samples at predefined time points, snap‑freeze in liquid nitrogen, and store at –80 °C until processing.
After the experiment, euthanize animals according to approved humane methods (e.g., CO₂ inhalation followed by cervical dislocation) and perform necropsy if required.
Statistical analysis should be pre‑registered. Apply appropriate tests (ANOVA, t‑test, non‑parametric alternatives) based on data distribution, and correct for multiple comparisons when needed.
Finally, compile a comprehensive report that includes methodology, raw data, statistical outcomes, and a discussion of limitations. Archive all raw files and study documentation for future verification and reproducibility.