Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

Which animal was instrumental in the development of a leprosy vaccine and is still used in research for a cure?

1. Mouse

2. Armadillo

3. Guinea Pig

4. Rabbit

The correct answer is: Armadillo

The armadillo has played a crucial role in the development of a leprosy vaccine due to its unique biological characteristics. These animals are naturally susceptible to the bacteria that cause leprosy, or Hansen's disease (Mycobacterium leprae). This susceptibility makes them invaluable for studying the disease's pathology and for testing potential vaccines. Research utilizing armadillos has led to significant advances in our understanding of leprosy and facilitated the exploration of vaccination strategies. Their ability to harbor the bacteria in large numbers provides a valid model for scientists to work with, contributing to efforts to find a cure. While other animals like mice, guinea pigs, and rabbits are commonly used in a variety of research settings, they do not exhibit the same natural infection and disease progression related to leprosy that armadillos do, making them less relevant in this specific context of research for leprosy.