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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
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Forward Genetic Approach to Uncover Stress Resistance Genes in Mice — A High-throughput Screen in ES Cells
Published on: November 11, 2015
Uses of forward and reverse genetics in mice to study gene function
Carmen A Argmann1, Andree Dierich, Johan Auwerx
1Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France.
Current Protocols in Molecular Biology
|February 12, 2008
Summary
Studying complex human diseases requires advanced genetic tools and mouse models that mimic human population genetics. Phenogenomic approaches using gene targeting and recombinant inbreeding in mice are crucial for understanding polygenic networks.
Area of Science:
- Human genetics research is expanding from simple Mendelian traits to complex diseases.
- This shift necessitates a multidisciplinary approach integrating genetics, metabolics, proteomics, bioinformatics, and mathematics.
Background:
- Classical mouse genetic resources are limited for studying complex polygenic networks and interactions.
- Complex diseases require experimental model systems that accurately reflect the genetic diversity of human populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline essential genetic approaches for studying mouse model systems.
- To emphasize the need for advanced genetic tools and optimized model systems for complex disease research.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing sophisticated genetic toolkits including classical, molecular, statistical, and quantitative genetics.
- Employing phenogenomic approaches in mouse models.
- Introducing specific mutations via gene targeting and genetic variability through recombinant inbreeding.
- Optimizing phenotyping analyses for mutant mouse lines.
Main Results:
- Mouse models are essential for dissecting multifactorial traits and regulatory processes in complex diseases.
- Phenogenomic strategies depend on efficient gene targeting and recombinant inbreeding methods.
- Optimized phenotyping is critical for the success of mutant mouse studies.
Conclusions:
- Advanced genetic and computational tools are vital for studying complex human diseases.
- Mouse model systems, particularly those mimicking human genetic structures, are indispensable for understanding polygenic networks.
- Effective implementation of gene targeting, recombinant inbreeding, and phenotyping is key to advancing complex disease genetics research.
Related Concept Videos
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Genetic screens are tools used to identify genes and mutations responsible for phenotypes of interest. Genetic screens help identify individuals or a group of people at risk of developing genetic diseases and help them with early intervention, targeted therapy, and reproductive options.
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...
01:16In-vitro Mutagenesis
To learn more about the function of a gene, researchers can observe what happens when the gene is inactivated or “knocked out,” by creating genetically engineered knockout animals. Knockout mice have been particularly useful as models for human diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
02:43Mouse Models of Cancer Study
Mice have long served as models for studying human biology and pathology because of their phylogenetic and physiological similarity with humans. They are also easy to maintain and breed in the laboratory, and hence, many inbred strains are now available for research. Studies on mice have contributed immeasurably to our understanding of cancer biology.
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...