Mice, microbes and models of infection
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 3, 2026
A Mouse Model for Pathogen-induced Chronic Inflammation at Local and Systemic Sites
Published on: August 8, 2014
1German Research Centre for Biotechnology (GBF), Mascheroder Weg 1, D-38124 Braunschweig, Germany
Abstract:
We urgently need animal models to study infectious disease. Mice are susceptible to a similar range of microbial infections as humans. Marked differences between inbred strains of mice in their response to pathogen infection can be exploited to analyse the genetic basis of infections. In addition, the genetic tools that are available in the laboratory mouse, and new techniques to monitor the expression of bacterial genes in vivo, make it the principal experimental animal model for studying mechanisms of infection and immunity.
Insights
Mice serve as crucial animal models for infectious disease research due to their susceptibility to human-like infections. Genetic variations in mouse strains and advanced tools aid in understanding infection and immunity mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Infectious disease research
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Animal models are essential for studying infectious diseases.
- Mice exhibit susceptibility to a broad spectrum of microbial infections, mirroring human responses.
- Inbred mouse strains display distinct variations in pathogen infection responses, offering opportunities for genetic analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of mice as a principal experimental animal model for infectious disease and immunity studies.
- To underscore the utility of genetic variation and advanced tools in laboratory mice for mechanistic investigations.
Main Methods:
- Exploiting genetic differences between inbred mouse strains to analyze the genetic basis of infections.
- Utilizing available genetic tools in laboratory mice.
- Employing new techniques for monitoring bacterial gene expression in vivo.
Main Results:
- Mice are susceptible to a similar range of microbial infections as humans.
- Differences in host response among mouse strains can be leveraged for genetic studies of infection.
- Laboratory mice, with their genetic tools and in vivo monitoring capabilities, are ideal for studying infection and immunity.
Conclusions:
- Laboratory mice are indispensable for advancing our understanding of infectious disease mechanisms and host immunity.
- The combination of genetic variability and technological advancements solidifies the mouse as a key model organism.
