Transgenic mice

Definition

Transgenic mice are genetically modified organisms that have had foreign DNA introduced into their genomes, allowing them to express specific genes from other species. This technology enables researchers to study gene function and regulation, model human diseases, and test new therapies in a controlled environment, making transgenic mice invaluable in biomedical research.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transgenic mice can be used to study various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders by introducing human genes associated with these conditions.
2. The creation of transgenic mice typically involves injecting DNA into fertilized eggs, which are then implanted into surrogate mothers to develop.
3. Transgenic mice can be bred to produce offspring that carry the same genetic modifications, allowing for long-term studies of the traits being investigated.
4. These mice are crucial for testing the efficacy and safety of new drugs before they are tested in humans, providing valuable insights into potential treatments.
5. The use of transgenic mice has raised ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and the implications of genetic modification in living organisms.

Review Questions

• How do transgenic mice contribute to our understanding of human diseases?
  • Transgenic mice serve as powerful models for studying human diseases because researchers can introduce specific genes that are linked to these diseases into the mouse genome. By observing how these modifications affect mouse physiology and behavior, scientists can gain insights into disease mechanisms, identify potential therapeutic targets, and test new treatment options before moving on to human trials. This helps bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications.
• Discuss the process of creating transgenic mice and the key techniques involved in this genetic modification.
  • Creating transgenic mice involves several steps, starting with isolating the desired gene that researchers want to introduce. This gene is then inserted into a vector, which is a carrier that facilitates the transfer of DNA. The next step is microinjecting this vector into fertilized mouse eggs. These eggs are implanted into surrogate mothers who will give birth to offspring carrying the transgene. Techniques such as gene targeting and CRISPR-Cas9 are often employed to improve the efficiency and precision of this process.
• Evaluate the ethical considerations surrounding the use of transgenic mice in research and how they impact scientific progress.
  • The use of transgenic mice raises significant ethical concerns regarding animal welfare, as these genetically modified organisms may experience unforeseen health issues or suffering due to their altered genetics. These considerations challenge scientists to find a balance between advancing medical research and ensuring humane treatment of laboratory animals. Regulatory frameworks exist to oversee research practices; however, ongoing discussions about the moral implications and necessity of using transgenic models influence both public perception and funding for scientific studies.

Related terms

Gene targeting: A technique used to make specific and intentional changes to the DNA of a living organism, often used in the creation of transgenic mice.

Knockout mice: Mice that have had a specific gene deactivated or 'knocked out' to study the effects of that gene on development and disease.

CRISPR-Cas9: A revolutionary gene-editing technology that allows for precise modifications to DNA, including the creation of transgenic organisms like mice.