What are mice used for experiments called? - briefly
Laboratory mice, often abbreviated as lab mice, are the standard mouse strains bred and maintained for scientific research.
What are mice used for experiments called? - in detail
Mice selected for scientific investigations are commonly referred to as laboratory mice, research mice, or experimental mice. These animals are bred and maintained under controlled conditions to ensure genetic uniformity, health status, and reproducibility of experimental outcomes.
The most frequently employed strains include:
- C57BL/6J – a widely used inbred line for immunology and neuroscience studies.
- BALB/c – favored for immunological research due to its Th2‑biased immune response.
- DBA/2 – utilized in auditory and cardiac research because of its distinct physiological traits.
- NOD/SCID – immunodeficient mice employed for xenograft tumor models and human cell engraftment.
Laboratory mice serve as models for a broad spectrum of biological investigations: gene function analysis via knockout or transgenic techniques, disease modeling (cancer, metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration), drug efficacy and toxicity testing, and behavioral assessments. Their short generation time, well‑characterized genome, and availability of extensive genetic tools make them indispensable for translational research.
Regulatory frameworks governing the use of these rodents require adherence to Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and relevant national legislation. Compliance ensures humane treatment, proper housing, and justification of experimental design, thereby supporting ethical scientific practice.