Mortality and growth characteristics of rat strains commonly used in aging research.

In choosing an experimental animal for the study of aging, the investigator should have knowledge of certain basic characteristics of the animal. Of particular importance are longevity and growth. This review aims to provide available data on the mortality and growth characteristics of rat strains commonly used in aging research. In addition, the influences of nutrition and housing conditions on these characteristics are described and discussed. Finally, the usefulness of rats as models for the study of nutrition and aging is considered.