Protein Malnutrition in BALB/c Mice: An Experimental Model Resembling Clinical Scenario

Abstract Objectives The study aims to develop a stable malnourished experimental mice model resembling the human population for future studies. Materials and Methodology At weaning, female BALB/c are separated into two groups: one receiving low protein diet (LPD, 10% protein) other commercially available normal pellet (ND, 18% protein). Model development stability were assessed using body mass index (BMI), biochemical parameters such as glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, cholesterol, calcium, phosphorus serum samples at 12th 15th weeks of study, antioxidant assay, liver histopathology observation. Antioxidant assay observation tissue sample excised after euthanasia. Results LPD categorized under grade I malnutrition based on weight change with respect ND per principles Gomez's classification malnutrition. A significant long-term decrease in BMI group indicates model. Elevated enzyme levels week decreased activity suggest injury oxidative stress cellular level group. Histopathology alterations further strengthen these observations reported Conclusion This confirms (10% may be used role pathophysiology any disease, drug action, its kinetics future.