Effect of in-house transport on murine plasma corticosterone concentration and blood lymphocyte populations.
The effect of in-house transport on plasma corticosterone concentration and blood lymphocyte populations of laboratory mice was investigated. Mice were transported within a research facility at 0900 hours in a pattern designed to simulate that commonly used by investigators prior to experimental manipulation. Plasma corticosterone concentration and WBC count were determined at 0.25, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after transport. A significant (P less than 0.05) increase in plasma corticosterone concentration was seen in mice immediately after transport. The normal circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone concentration was altered for the subsequent 24-hour period. Corresponding significant (P less than 0.05) decreases in total WBC numbers, lymphocyte count, and thymus gland weight were observed. The decrease in total blood lymphocyte numbers at 4 hours was reflected in B- and T-lymphocyte populations. The subsequent acute increase in plasma corticosterone concentration was associated with alterations in the cellular components of the immune system. Results of the study indicated that routine in-house transport of laboratory mice should be considered a stressful stimulus.
Drozdowicz
C K
CK
Department of Comparative Medicine, College of Medicine, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey 17033.
Bowman
T A
TA
Webb
M L
ML
Lang
C M
CM
D000818:Animals; D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D003345:Corticosterone / Q000097:blood*; D007958:Leukocyte Count / Q000662:veterinary; D008214:Lymphocytes; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008807:Mice, Inbred BALB C; D009929:Organ Size; D012107:Research Design; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000662:veterinary*; D013950:Thymus Gland / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D014186:Transportation
D003345:Corticosterone