What can be obtained from mice?

What can be obtained from mice? - briefly

Researchers obtain DNA, RNA, proteins, and various tissues (e.g., brain, liver, heart) as well as primary cell cultures and organoid models from laboratory mice. These materials enable investigations in genetics, disease mechanisms, drug testing, and neuroscience.

What can be obtained from mice? - in detail

Mice serve as a source of diverse biological materials and data that support research, biotechnology, and medical development. Researchers harvest whole organisms, specific organs, and cellular components to study physiology, genetics, and disease mechanisms.

  • Genomic DNA and RNA – extracted from tissues for sequencing, gene expression profiling, and the creation of transgenic lines.
  • Primary cells – fibroblasts, neurons, hepatocytes, and immune cells cultured for in‑vitro experiments, drug screening, and stem‑cell reprogramming.
  • Tissue samples – brain, heart, liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle collected for histology, proteomics, metabolomics, and imaging studies.
  • Serum and plasma – used to evaluate biomarkers, hormonal levels, and pharmacokinetic parameters.
  • Embryos and embryonic stem cells – provide a platform for developmental biology, gene editing, and regenerative medicine.
  • Microbiome specimens – fecal and intestinal contents analyzed to understand host‑microbe interactions.
  • Behavioral data – recorded through tracking systems, providing quantitative measures of locomotion, cognition, and anxiety.
  • Physiological recordings – electrophysiological signals, blood pressure, and metabolic rates obtained via implanted sensors or non‑invasive devices.

These outputs enable the construction of disease models, validation of therapeutic candidates, and generation of reference datasets that drive scientific progress.