RAW Truth 3: Sleeping with the Enemy of Science

The vast majority of animals involved in biomedical research studies today are rodents, mainly mice. And the scientific information that comes from most of them is questionable because of a source of variability that is often overlooked by the research community - the bedding in their cages. Joining us today to break down the 'what', 'why' and 'what can be done' to protect rigor and reproducibility at the cage level, is Joel Shepherd, an expert in rodent bedding manufacturing who has worked closely with the biomedical research community for over thirty years.

Mycotoxins, endotoxins, phytoestrogens, and PFAS in rodent bedding can skew research outcomes.

Corncob Bedding Alters the Effects of Estrogens on Aggressive Behavior and Reduces Estrogen Receptor-
Expression in the Brain

Comparison of growth and pubertal progression in wild type female rats with different bedding types

Endotoxin, Coliform, and Dust Levels in Various Types of Rodent Bedding

Mycotoxins: A menace to animal health

PFAS animal toxicity, mode of action and mixture approach

These Chemicals Are Forever: Water Contamination from PFOA, PFOS and other PFASs

Corncob disrupts sleep and cellulose absorbs ammonia as well or better. Why is anyone still housing research rodents on corncob bedding?!

Rats Housed on Corncob Bedding Show Less Slow-Wave Sleep

Comparison of Four Beddings for Ammonia Control in Individually Ventilated Mouse Cages

Excellence in the Cage Starts Here!