Buzz
Researchers can efficiently modify mice to deactivate or silence specific genes, which is essential for understanding the role these genes play in various diseases.
JacobStudio/iStock/ThinkstockSelecting mice as the primary subjects for scientific studies is logical due to practical rather than purely scientific reasons: Their small size makes them easy to house, unlike larger animals like elephants or giraffes, which would be impractical. Additionally, mice pose minimal risk; a mouse bite is far less dangerous than an encounter with an agitated tiger.
While we joke, there’s validity to the notion that mice are more practical for experimentation than other animals. Their small size and low threat level are advantageous for researchers. Moreover, mice reproduce rapidly, ensuring a steady, affordable supply for labs. Their short lifespan of a few years allows scientists to study multiple generations in a relatively short time, making them ideal for genetic and generational research.
Mice are not merely chosen for their manageable size and rapid reproduction. Over 90% of our genes are shared with mice [source: Koshland Science Museum], making them an excellent model for studying how human genes respond to similar conditions. Additionally, their biological systems, such as organs, closely resemble those of humans.
A key reason researchers favor mice is their genetic malleability. Scientists can alter mice to deactivate or silence specific genes, creating what are known as "knockout mice." These modified mice are invaluable for studying the role of genes in disease development [source: NHGRI]. By comparing mice with and without the gene, researchers can uncover its potential impact on human health.
Transgenic mice, another genetically altered variant, are engineered with extra, non-native DNA. This modification provides an effective way to simulate human-specific diseases and investigate genetic mechanisms [source: Twyman].
