Why are mice used in experiments? - briefly
Mice are employed in biomedical research because their genetic makeup closely resembles that of humans, they reproduce quickly, and they can be maintained economically, enabling rapid, reproducible investigations of disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
Why are mice used in experiments? - in detail
Mice are employed in biomedical research because they possess genetic, physiological, and anatomical characteristics that closely resemble those of humans. Their genome is fully sequenced, enabling precise manipulation of specific genes to create models of disease. Rapid breeding cycles and large litter sizes allow generation of statistically robust sample groups within short time frames.
Key advantages include:
- Genetic tractability – techniques such as CRISPR, transgenesis, and knockout strategies can be applied efficiently, producing animals that express, suppress, or modify target genes.
- Physiological relevance – organ systems, metabolic pathways, and immune responses share significant similarity with human counterparts, permitting translation of findings.
- Cost efficiency – housing, feeding, and caretaking expenses are lower than for larger mammals, facilitating extensive experimental designs.
- Ethical considerations – regulatory frameworks often permit mouse use as the smallest viable vertebrate model, reducing animal welfare concerns compared with higher-order species.
Standardized inbred strains provide uniform genetic backgrounds, minimizing variability and enhancing reproducibility across laboratories. Outbred stocks introduce genetic diversity that better reflects population heterogeneity, useful for pharmacological screening and toxicology studies.
Mice also serve as surrogate hosts for human cells and tissues. Immunodeficient strains accept xenografts, allowing investigation of tumor growth, stem‑cell behavior, and organoid development in an in vivo environment. Such models bridge the gap between cell‑culture experiments and clinical trials.
In summary, the combination of manipulable genetics, physiological similarity, economical maintenance, and regulatory acceptance makes mice the preferred vertebrate model for exploring disease mechanisms, testing therapeutics, and assessing safety.