Animal models for influenza virus transmission studies: a historical perspective.

摘要: Animal models are used to simulate, under experimental conditions, the complex interactions among host, virus, and environment that affect person-to-person spread of influenza viruses. The three species have been most frequently employed, both past present, as virus transmission models-ferrets, mice, guinea pigs-have each provided unique insights into factors governing efficiency with which these viruses pass from an infected host a susceptible one. This review will highlight few noteworthy discoveries, particular focus on historical contexts in model was developed advantages disadvantages regard study mammals.