他们“冒”着日寇轰炸危险 “藏”在北碚养实验小白鼠

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant role of the China Scientific Society's Biological Research Institute in Chongqing during the wartime period from 1937 to 1940, focusing on the breeding and preservation of laboratory mice, which were crucial for various scientific research fields in China during a time of scarcity and conflict [2][14]. Group 1: Historical Context - The outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937 led to the relocation of many scientific institutions, including the Biological Research Institute, to preserve valuable scientific resources [4]. - The institute, under the leadership of prominent botanist Qian Chongshu, moved from Nanjing to Chongqing with the support of patriotic industrialist Lu Zuofu [5]. Group 2: Challenges in Breeding Laboratory Mice - The shortage of standardized laboratory mice became a critical barrier for physiological, pathological, and pharmacological experiments [6]. - Local mouse species in China were unsuitable for precise experiments due to their small size and genetic mixing, necessitating the import of purebred mice from institutions like the Wistar Institute in the U.S. [7][8]. Group 3: Breeding Efforts and Successes - The institute faced significant challenges in breeding the imported mice, including substandard living conditions and limited resources, yet managed to maintain a health rate of over 50% for the mouse population [9][10]. - From 1936 to 1939, the institute conducted 116 breeding sessions, resulting in 605 healthy offspring, demonstrating effective breeding practices despite wartime difficulties [11]. Group 4: Contribution to National Research - The Biological Research Institute became a vital supply center for laboratory mice, providing healthy specimens to various educational and research institutions across China during the war [13]. - The mice were carefully transported to support research in pathology, nutrition, and other fields, symbolizing collaboration and knowledge sharing among Chinese scientists during a tumultuous period [13]. Group 5: Legacy and Recognition - Recent archival releases by the Beibei District Museum shed light on this lesser-known yet crucial aspect of wartime scientific efforts, emphasizing the dedication of researchers who contributed to the foundation of modern biological and medical research in China [14].