Opossum (Monodelphis domestica): A Marsupial Development Model

INTRODUCTION

Monodelphis domestica is the most commonly used laboratory marsupial. In addition to the many factors that make it a convenient laboratory animal (small size, ease of care, nonseasonal breeding), it is the first marsupial whose genome has been sequenced. In this article, we present an overview of aspects of its biology and its use as a model organism. We also discuss basic care, breeding, embryo manipulation, and modifications of common techniques for the study of the development of this species.