Reference values of biochemical and hematological parameters of Rattus novergicus (Wistar) from the Animal Production Unit of the Research Institute for Drugs and Medicines of the Federal University of Paraíba

Abstract

Animals from different breeding sites may show variations in their physiological parameters. The aims of this study were to determine the range of reference values ​​for biochemical and hematological parameters of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) from the Animal Production Unit of the Research Institute for Drugs and Medicines at the Federal University of Paraíba (UPA/IPeFarM/UFPB), as well as comparing the data found with published data for other national and international animal production units. Healthy animals (n=40/gender) with 8 to 12 weeks of age and weight between 150 and 300 g were used. Whole blood samples were obtained by intracardiac puncture and used for the quantification of erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets and hematimetric indices. Serum concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total proteins, urea, albumin, creatinine, uric acid and the enzymatic activity of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were determined. When comparing the genders, significant differences were observed between all parameters evaluated. In addition, discrepancies were found between the values ​​obtained (except total proteins, uric acid and red blood cells) and results from other breeding sites. Therefore, it is necessary that each bioterium determines the reference values ​​of the physiological profile of their animals, considering the intrinsic and extrinsic factors in their homeostasis, in order to provide real data for the experiments of their institutions.