Rat Resource & Research Center - Microbiota Characterization

The gut microbiota (GM) is now recognized as a key factor in health and disease. Differences in the composition of the gut microbiota of research animals may contribute to altered phenotypes or poor reproducibility of animal-based studies. Culture-independent techniques such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) allow in-depth characterization of the GM. The RRRC now offers a full line of NGS-related services including fecal DNA extraction, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and informatics analysis to researchers using rat models. For more information, please see here or contact us.

16S rRNA gene sequencing requires submission of 1-2 fresh fecal samples per rat. Samples should be frozen immediately following collection and shipped frozen. You will receive a detailed report containing the relative abundance of all detected microbes at each taxonomic level, 2D and 3D principal component analyses, rarefaction curves, and the associated raw data. For more information, please see here.

Services Offered	Non-Profit/ Academic Fees	For Profit Fees
Microbiota Characterization	Contact for Quote

Weather and Shipping

The welfare of the animals is of utmost importance and as we head into the summer months, inclement weather and excessive heat will delay/prevent shipments of live animals. Be aware that hot temperatures between June and mid-September may negatively impact the ability of couriers to safely ship animals so please plan your live animal orders accordingly.

Provide Your Input on NIH's Proposed Strategic Plan by May 26, 2026.

The NIH is currently seeking input for its next strategic plan, and a major focus of this framework involves the future of animal research. Because these high-level policies directly impact the future of the RRRC and your work, it’s crucial that the scientific community participates. The NIH has provided a short feedback form that only takes a few minutes to complete. Please consider submitting your input. URL: https://grants.nih.gov/news-events/nih-extramural-nexus-news/2026/03/nih-seeks-input-on-framework-for-next-nih-wide-strategic-plan Comments must be submitted electronically through the submission website. Responses must be received on May 26, 2026, by 11:59:59 p.m. (ET).

Animal Models and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)

NAMs are lab (e.g., organoids and iPSCs) or computer-based methods intended to expand our tools for modeling human biology and disease. While this field is rapidly evolving, the need for animal models remains, especially for situations where a complex biological system is necessary. In addition, animal models serve as vital in vivo controls for the validation and verification of emerging NAMs.