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Mutant laboratory mice with abnormalities in pigmentation: annotated tables.

Motonobu Nakamura¹, Desmond J Tobin, Beverly Richards-Smith

¹Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Eppendorf, University of Hamburg, Germany.

Journal of Dermatological Science

|March 28, 2002

Summary

Researchers are using mutant mice to study pigment cell biology and gene function. This review details mouse models with coat color changes, aiding research into pigmentation and related human diseases.

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Area of Science:

Mammalian biology
Genetics
Molecular biology

Background:

Mammalian pigment cell research is rapidly advancing.
Mutant mouse stocks, including transgenic and knockout models, are crucial tools.
These mice exhibit abnormal coat color phenotypes, offering insights into gene function.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide an overview of mutant mice with pigmentation alterations.
To create an annotated table of these mouse models for research comparison.
To include a table of mouse models for human diseases with pigmentation abnormalities.

Main Methods:

Review of literature on mutant mouse stocks.
Annotation of mouse models with pigmentation alterations.
Compilation of data on genetically engineered and spontaneous mutants.

Main Results:

Identification of diverse mouse models, from developmental defects to melanoma metastasis.
Cataloging of mouse models relevant to human pigmentation disorders.
Creation of comprehensive tables for reference.

Conclusions:

Mutant mice are invaluable for understanding pigment cell function and gene roles.
This annotated table serves as a key resource for researchers in pigmentation and related fields.
Facilitates the study of molecular controls of pigmentation and associated human conditions.