Its lifecycle is similar to the human hookworms Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale, taking five molting stages to become sexually mature.

Eggs located within the soil release motile, free-living worms that must moult twice (L1 and L2) to develop into their infective L3 stage.

N. brasiliensis is adapted to infecting rats, so can continue laying eggs for prolonged periods of time.

The availability of inbred and mutant mouse strains can be advantageous when examining the genetic basis of murine susceptibility and resistance to infection.

[4] An infection model of N. brasiliensis has been used to determine that at least two distinct Th2-type immune responses occur - one that is TSLP-dependent, and one that is type-1 interferon-dependent.

[8] Lab mice previously infected with N. brasiliensis develop massive emphysema with dilation of distal airspaces due to the loss of alveolar septa; N. brasiliensis infection can result in deterioration of the lung, destruction to the alveoli, and long-term airway hyperresponsiveness, which is consistent with emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

[9] Among respiratory problems, a N. brasiliensis infection can also result in the loss of both body mass and red blood cell density.