Investigating gene function using mouse models

Mouse models have become central to investigating and understanding mammalian gene function. Since the development of the first transgenic and knockout models, new methods have been envisioned that both simplify and increase the specificity of mouse models. Combinations of genetic tools have also been applied to dissect gene activities and to provide systems that are both spatially and temporally regulated. Furthermore, novel technologies have been developed that can regulate biological information at each level from creating specific modifications in DNA, to inhibiting gene transcription, to regulating protein activity.