We want to study the effect of a probiotic strain in the prevention and treatment of colitis induced by SSD in mice (a mild form of colitis).

The protocol found in some pubblications for mice C57L6 suggests 1.5% SSD for 7-9 days and then 3 week of water without SSD to induce chronic form of colitis. We want to give probiotics (by gavage) to mice before induction (1 week before), continuing during the other weeks.

We have a lot of doubts and questions:

1. Are C57BL6 the right model to induce this form of colitis with 1.5% SSD? What about Balb/c mice? Male mices are better than female?

2. We want to analyse: DAI score, MPO activity, istological analysis, serum and colon citockine and so on... In the chronic form what is the best period to sacrificy mice, in order to find alterations in citockine profile, istology and so on??? If I sacrificed mice on day 28 after 3 week of water, I would find alterations rather than colitis remission?

3. How can I house mice in the cages? Do I have to house one mouse for cage, in order to verify DAI score and to check SDD water consuption of each mouse? and for how much time? They are social animals.....I don't want to stress them....

Could anyone help me to solve this questions?

Thank you in advance

Dr. Laura Manna