DIVISIONS OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT IN WISTAR RAT (Rattus novergicus)

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The laboratory rat (Rattus novergicus albinus) has been used as a model for medical, biological and molecular researchs, for a long time. It is interesting the fact that there are not detailed descriptions of the gross anatomy of the digestive system. The aim of this study is to define clearly and according to the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria (1) principles, the different parts of the digestive tract in this species of laboratory mammal. Eighty-eight rats (Rattus novergicus albinus) were used, with a weight between 250 and 450 grams. They were dissected in fresh, after been euthanized by a overdose of thiopental sodium intraperitoneal. An incision from the intermandibular up to the pubic region was made. The different parts of the digestive tract were described and we concluded with a list of terms in line to the NAV.