TY - JOUR T1 - Comparing the Organs and Vasculature of the Head and Neck in Five Murine Species JF - In Vivo JO - In Vivo SP - 861 LP - 871 VL - 31 IS - 5 AU - MIN JAE KIM AU - YOO YEON KIM AU - JANET REN CHAO AU - HAE SANG PARK AU - JIWON CHANG AU - DAWOON OH AU - JAE JUN LEE AU - TAE CHUN KANG AU - JUN-GYO SUH AU - JUN HO LEE Y1 - 2017/09/01 UR - http://iv.iiarjournals.org/content/31/5/861.abstract N2 - Background/Aim: The purpose of the present study was to delineate the cervical and facial vascular and associated anatomy in five murine species, and compare them for optimal use in research studies focused on understanding the pathology and treatment of diseases in humans. Materials and Methods: The specific adult male animals examined were mice (C57BL/6J), rats (F344), mongolian gerbils (Merionesunguiculatus), hamsters (Syrian), and guinea pigs (Hartley). To stain the vasculature and organs, of the face and neck, each animal was systemically perfused using the vital stain, Trypan Blue. Following this step, the detailed anatomy of the head and neck could be easily visualized in all species. Results: Unique morphological characteristics were demonstrated by comparing the five species, including symmetry of the common carotid origin bilaterally in the Mongolian Gerbil, a large submandibular gland in the hamster and an enlarged buccal branch in the Guinea Pig. In reviewing the anatomical details, this staining technique proves superior for direct surgical visualization and identification. Conclusion: The anatomical details provided through these five species atlas will help experimental researchers in the future to select the most appropriate animal model for specific laboratory studies aimed to improve our understanding and treatment of diseases in patients. ER -