Rabbit models of human diseases for diagnostics and therapeutics development

This review presents some examples of studies using the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) that have led to, and continue to, contribute to advancement of understanding of human diseases as well as therapeutics development. In addition, we tabulate FDA-approved rabbit polyclonal and rabbit monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that are used for diagnostic applications, as well as an overview of some “humanized” or otherwise altered rabbit mAbs that are in initial phase I, II, or advanced to phase III clinical trials. Information about endogenous retriviruses learned from studies of rabbits and other members of the order Lagomorpha are summarized as this knowledge now applies to new therapeutics being developed for several human diseases including Multiple Sclerosis, Type 1 Diabetes and Cancer.