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A Phenotyping Regimen for Genetically Modified Mice Used to Study Genes Implicated in Human Diseases of Aging
Published on: July 14, 2016
Exotic mice as models for aging research: polemic and prospectus
R A Miller1, S Austad, D Burke
1Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-0940, USA. millerr@umich.edu
Neurobiology of Aging
|October 28, 1999
Summary
Genetically heterogeneous rodent models offer more robust aging research findings than inbred strains. Utilizing diverse populations, including wild-derived stocks, enhances the validity of gerontological studies.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Animal Models
- Genetics
Background:
- Gerontological research predominantly uses inbred rodent strains or their F1 hybrids.
- Reliance on genetically homogeneous populations may limit the generalizability of findings.
- Strain-specific characteristics can influence experimental outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the use of genetically heterogeneous rodent populations in aging research.
- To highlight the limitations of inbred strains for studying aging and late-life pathophysiology.
- To propose alternative strategies for generating genetically diverse research subjects.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of segregating stocks (backcross, F2, four-way cross) as an improvement over inbred and F1 stocks.
- Consideration of wild-trapped progenitors for developing specific pathogen-free (SPF) stocks.
- Emphasis on selecting wild populations with relevant evolutionary history and physiological traits.
Main Results:
- Genetically heterogeneous populations provide inexpensive, large, and reproducible subject pools.
- Segregating stocks offer greater genetic diversity than inbred or F1 stocks.
- Wild-derived SPF stocks hold potential for analyzing aging and late-life pathophysiology.
Conclusions:
- Genetically homogeneous rodent models may not be optimal for many gerontological investigations.
- Heterogeneous mice and rats can lead to more robust and less strain-idiosyncratic conclusions.
- Developing SPF stocks from wild-trapped progenitors is a valuable strategy for aging research.
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