Armenian Hamster Flashcards
Genus, species, and common name of Armenian hamster.
Cricetulus migratorius, gray hamster.
Why was the Armenian hamster originally used in research? What are they used for today?
Susceptibility to mutagenic and carcinogenic agents. Prion diseases.
What similarity does the Armenian hamster have with the Syrian?
Highly susceptible to oncogenic viruses, but has a high tolerance to homologous and heterologous transplantable tumors.
Describe the care and management of Armenian hamsters.
Similar to those of Chinese hamsters.
Describe Armenian hamster size, diploid chromosome number, sexual maturity, gestation, litter size, and personality.
33-80g
2n = 22, X and Y of equal size
Sexual maturity 50 days (7 weeks)
Gestation = 18-19 days
Litter size = 5-7 pups
Aggressive if captured, can be bred in lab
Are Armenian hamsters predisposed to infectious disease?
No, reports are rare.
How does the pathogenesis of amyloidosis differ in Armenian vs Syrian hamsters?
Differs in gender-specific AP expression and susceptibility to AA amyloidosis
What neoplasia is reported in Armenians exposed to estrogen?
Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Skin lesions in Armenian hamsters have been attributed to what agent?
Demodex cricetuli. Similar to D. aurati of Syrians, occupies hair follicles along face and back.
