What is the scientific study of rats called? - briefly
The discipline that investigates rats is termed murine biology, a specialized branch of zoology and biomedical research. It covers rat physiology, genetics, behavior, and their use as disease‑model organisms.
What is the scientific study of rats called? - in detail
The scientific investigation of rats is encompassed within the discipline of murine research, often referred to as ratology. This field integrates several sub‑disciplines:
- Taxonomy and systematics: classification of species within the genus Rattus, identification of morphological traits, and phylogenetic relationships.
- Physiology and anatomy: study of organ systems, metabolic pathways, and neurobiology specific to rats, providing comparative data for other mammals.
- Behavioral science: analysis of social structures, foraging strategies, learning and memory processes, and stress responses.
- Genetics and genomics: sequencing of the rat genome, manipulation of genes through techniques such as CRISPR, and creation of transgenic lines for functional studies.
- Disease modeling: utilization of rats as experimental models for cardiovascular, neurological, oncological, and metabolic disorders, facilitating pre‑clinical testing of therapeutics.
- Toxicology and pharmacology: assessment of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in rat models, supporting safety evaluations.
Research institutions maintain dedicated rat colonies, applying standardized husbandry protocols to ensure reproducibility. Ethical guidelines govern experimental design, emphasizing the 3Rs principle—replacement, reduction, and refinement. Publications in peer‑reviewed journals disseminate findings, advancing knowledge of rat biology and its relevance to human health.