Necessity of a more standardized microbiological characterization of rodents for aging studies.

The establishment of germ-free, gnotobiotic, and SPF animal colonies is a major component of any effort to develop suitable animal models for aging research. Epidemic and endemic disease in laboratory animals can lead to unacceptable losses, contamination of research results, and exposure of staff and investigators to unnecessary health risks. Monitoring the health status and microbiological burden of the animals is particularly important. These issues are discussed, with accompanying guidelines and protocols in pragmatic, tabular form.