The Role of Nutrition and Care in Laboratory Mice Used for Scientific Research

Laboratory mice (Mus musculus) are the most widely used mammalian model in scientific research due to their genetic similarity to humans, rapid reproduction manageable size, and cost-effective maintenance. This review comprehensively examines the biological characterıstics, behavior, housing requirements, and most importantly, the nutritional needs of laboratory mice. Adequate and species-appropriate nutrition is essential not only for animal welfare but also for the reliability and reproducibility of experimental outcomes. Nutrient requirements vary according to age, sex strain, and physiological status, such as growth, reproduction, pregnancy, and lactation. Standard diets must be formulated to provide the appropriate balance of macronutrients (protein, fat carbohydrates), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and water energy needs, amino acid profiles fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamin requirements, and trace mineral demands are dicussed in detail supported by specific dietary formulations and intake levels. The paper also addresses the formats and administration of diets (pellet, gel, liquid), and the effects of nutritional deficiencies on phvsiological functions such as immunity reproduction and metabolism. Furthermore, environmental factors including cage design, ambient temperature, humidity, and light cycles are highlighted as critical elements that interact with nutrition to influence mice physiology. Proper handling and husbandry techniques are outlined to minimize stress and maintain consistent experimental conditions. Emphasis is placed on the need for standardized feeding protocols to ensure comparability across studies. In conclusion, the successful use of mice in research requires a multidisciplinary approach combining optimal nutrition, ethical care, and well-controlled environmental conditions. These factors are vital to preserving the physiological integrity of laboratory mice and generating meaningful scientific data.