In vivo model systems: the choice of the experimental animal model for analysis of lipoproteins and atherosclerosis

The major species which serve as models for the study of plasma lipoproteins as well as atherosclerosis include rabbits, hamsters, mice, rats, pigs, and non-human primates. However, since no single species has all of the desired attributes which would qualify it as the 'best' overall model, the selection of a model is strongly dependent upon the specific subject to be investigated. The recent developments and applications of the techniques of molecular biology and genetics are having an important impact on studies of lipoproteins and atherosclerosis. Emphasis is currently being placed not only on the development of mutant strains of several species that express specific phenotypes, but also on the development of transgenic models to test suspected gene action on lipoprotein synthesis and metabolism, and vascular pathophysiology.