COVID-19 Syrian hamster model
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covid-19 Syrian hamster model
IITRI has developed a robust model for COVID-19 using the Syrian (golden) hamster.
Below is a basic study description and design, although IITRI can provide specialized study designs based on your needs. Contact us today to learn more and discuss how we can partner for SARS-CoV-2 animal studies.
| Species Information | Syrian Hamster (~5-6 weeks at challenge) |
| Study Duration | 14 days+ |
| Challenge Dosage and Strain |
Intranasal (25 μl / nare) at 5 x 10^4; USA-WA1/2020 (SARS-CoV-2)
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| Drug administration | Aerosol, oral (inquire about others) |
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Possible Endpoints – General clinical observations – Weight – Viral load in nasal wash (Confirmed with RT-PCR) – Viral load in blood (Confirmed with RT-PCR) – Survival – At necropsy macroscopic inspection of lungs with regard to focal darkened areas – On Day 3: Necropsy for virus detection in blood and tissue homogenates, brain, trachea, lungs (upper, middle lower lobes), kidney, jejunum, ileum; confirmed with RT-PCR – On Day 14: Necropsy for histopathology of nasal turbinate (breakdown of the mucosal barrier and infiltration of inflammatory cells), lungs (interstitial pneumonia, infiltration of inflammatory cells, mucus and neutrophils in bronchioles), GI-tract (jejunum, ileum, colon), kidney; all tissues will be evaluated with standard H.E. staining |
Read more about the SARS-CoV-2 Syrian hamster model below:
– Pathogenesis and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in golden hamsters (Nature article, 05/2020)