Hamster capabilities – United Kingdom

JSOT 2025 -- Hamsters are used less frequently in biomedical research compared to other rodent species such as rats and mice. Historically, they have been associated with tumour induction and transplantation studies using their cheek pouches. In a laboratory setting, they have a reasonably long life expectancy and, as a species, have a relatively low incidence of spontaneous tumours. Extensive experience has been developed at the Labcorp Harrogate, UK facility over the past 10+ years from basic husbandry to dosing methods, and short-term to repeat dose studies. Five chronic toxicity studies have been performed within the last 15 years at two Labcorp sites globally – two in Madison, WI, USA and three in Harrogate, UK – using HsdHan AURA [Syrian Golden] Hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus).