The online feature guides readers through different aspects of these fascinating animals and their relevance for research. Following an introduction to the topic, it addresses why African mole-rats are used in biomedical research and what makes them a unique model organism.
Further sections explore their natural habitat and adaptation to life underground, complemented by a concise fact sheet summarizing key biological characteristics.
The initiative also touches on aspects of housing and enrichment, before highlighting important milestones in biomedical research involving African mole-rats.
In addition, current figures on the number of African mole-rats used in research in 2024 are presented in context. Finally, the feature provides insights into ongoing research activities in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Learn more in our online feature (soon also in English): African Mole-Rats in Biomedical Research