They represent an ideal non-rodent, small animal model in which to study the immunology and pathogenesis of certain diseases. Rabbits have been shown to be more closely related to primates than are rodents by studies of DNA and protein sequences. Rabbits are useful models for study of cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary inflamma-tion, papillomavirus, and osteoarthrosis. Pigs resemble man in skin structure, immune system, and cardio-pulmonary physiology. They are used in studies of allo- and xenotransplantation, atherosclerosis, kidney disease, and diabetes.
Guinea pigs are useful models in studies of allergy and specific parasitic diseases.
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