Pneumonic Tularemia in Rabbits Resembles Human Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Reed Douglas S., Smith Le'Kneitah, Dunsmore Tammy, Trichel Anita, Ortiz Luis A., Cole Kelly Stefano, Barry Eileen
Primary Institution: Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh
Hypothesis
Can rabbits serve as a relevant model for studying pneumonic tularemia in humans?
Conclusion
The study found that pneumonic tularemia in rabbits closely mimics the human disease, making rabbits a suitable model for research.
Supporting Evidence
- Rabbits developed fever and weight loss after exposure to the bacteria.
- No rabbits survived exposure at any dose.
- Blood tests showed significant changes consistent with infection.
- Radiographs indicated pneumonia and gastrointestinal abnormalities.
Takeaway
The researchers studied how rabbits get sick from a bacteria that can also make humans sick, and they found that rabbits show similar symptoms.
Methodology
Twenty young female NZW rabbits were exposed to aerosols of F. tularensis and monitored for clinical signs, temperature, weight loss, and hematological changes.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of rabbits and the controlled environment of the study.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size and focused only on one strain of F. tularensis.
Participant Demographics
Young female New Zealand White rabbits.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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