Classification of Genetically Modified Mouse Models

Genetically modified mouse models are invaluable tools in modern biomedical research, providing key insights into gene function, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. By manipulating the mouse genome in specific ways, researchers can create models that closely mimic human biological processes and diseases, allowing for the development of more targeted and effective treatments.

These models are primarily categorized based on the type of genetic modification involved:

(1) Transgenic mouse models involve the introduction of foreign genes (transgenes) into the mouse genome. This allows researchers to study the effects of gene overexpression or foreign genes on biological processes, aiding in the understanding of diseases such as cancer and metabolic disorders.

(2) Knockout mouse models are created by completely inactivating or “knocking out” specific genes. These models are used to explore the consequences of gene loss and its effects on development, cellular function, and disease. Knockout mice have been instrumental in revealing the roles of key genes, such as tumor suppressor genes and genes involved in immune function.

(3) Conditional knockout mouse models allow researchers to inactivate genes in specific tissues or developmental stages, providing additional precision. This is particularly useful for studying genes essential for survival, as it avoids the early lethality often associated with global gene knockouts.

(4) Knock-in mouse models involve the insertion of a specific gene or mutation into a precise location within the genome. These models are essential for studying diseases caused by single gene mutations, such as Huntington's disease or cystic fibrosis.

(5) Humanized mouse models carry human genes, tissues, or cells, making them highly relevant for studying human diseases and drug responses. These models are particularly useful in areas such as cancer immunotherapy and infectious disease research.

Together, these transgenic mouse models provide researchers with powerful tools to study complex biological processes, advance disease research, and accelerate the development of new and more effective therapies.

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Reference

[1] Channabasavaiah Gurumurthy and Kevin Kent LIoyd, Dis Model Mech 2019 (10.1242/dmm.029462)

[2] Megan Michalski and Bart Williams, Biomolecules 2023 (10.3390/biom13091311)