Immune-related health-relevant changes in natural populations of Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769): White blood cell counts, leukocyte activity, and peripheral organ infiltration

Abstract

Basic immune-related health-relevant changes (total and differential white blood cell counts and activity, leukocyte tissue infiltration, and related pathohistology) were assessed in wild Norway rats from urban habitats. Comparative measurements were conducted in individuals of several laboratory strains of Norway rat in order to gain insight into environmental effects on the health of wild rats. Changes in leukocyte counts and activity along with tissue infiltration were noted only in wild rats, indicating systemic as well as tissue inflammation in these animals. Coincidence of these changes with chronic inflammatory pulmonary and kidney disease was observed in the majority of affected rats.

Keywords

• wild Norway rats
• leukocytes
• tissue inflammation