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A technique for intragastric gavage of radiolabeled liquid cholesterol in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) using a pediatric feeding tube

Abstract

The author describes a method of intragastric gavage in rabbits using a pediatric feeding tube. Researchers used this technique to administer radiolabeled cholesterol in a pilot study of cholesterol efflux. The author discusses specific considerations for gavaging rabbits, emphasizing occupational safety and rabbit welfare.

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Figure 1: Intragastric gavage of radiolabeled liquid cholesterol in rabbits.
Figure 2

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Acknowledgements

I gratefully acknowledge the skillful assistance with animal handling and restraint provided by Kim Berry (Heart Research Institute), George Fior and Arturo Samcam (Department of Animal Care, Westmead Hospital). I also thank Craig Godfrey (Department of Animal Care, Westmead Hospital) for the photography and Dr. W. Hawthorne and Professor D. Harris (Centre for Transplant & Renal Research, Westmead Hospital) for their review of the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Gary Martinic.

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The author declares no competing financial interests.

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Martinic, G. A technique for intragastric gavage of radiolabeled liquid cholesterol in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) using a pediatric feeding tube. Lab Anim 37, 323–328 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/laban0708-323

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