Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 19, 2026
Behavioral Phenotyping of Murine Disease Models with the Integrated Behavioral Station INBEST
Published on: April 23, 2015
Mouse Models as Resources for Studying Infectious Diseases
1Department of Genetics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
Abstract:
Mouse models are important tools both for studying the pathogenesis of infectious diseases and for the preclinical evaluation of vaccines and therapies against a wide variety of human pathogens. The use of genetically defined inbred mouse strains, humanized mice, and gene knockout mice has allowed the research community to explore how pathogens cause disease, define the role of specific host genes in either controlling or promoting disease, and identify potential targets for the prevention or treatment of a wide range of infectious agents. This review discusses several of the most commonly used mouse model systems, as well as new resources such as the Collaborative Cross as models for studying infectious diseases.
Insights
Genetically defined mouse models are crucial for understanding infectious disease pathogenesis and evaluating vaccines and therapies. This review covers common and novel mouse models for infectious disease research.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Mouse models are indispensable for studying pathogen mechanisms and disease progression.
- Genetically modified mice (inbred, humanized, knockout) enable detailed investigation of host-pathogen interactions.
- These models are vital for preclinical testing of vaccines and therapeutics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review commonly used mouse models for infectious disease research.
- To highlight emerging mouse models, including the Collaborative Cross.
- To underscore the utility of mouse models in understanding disease pathogenesis and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on mouse models in infectious disease research.
- Discussion of genetically defined mouse strains (inbred, humanized, knockout).
- Introduction of novel resources like the Collaborative Cross.
Main Results:
- Established mouse models allow exploration of pathogen virulence and host immune responses.
- Gene knockout and humanized mice elucidate the role of specific host factors in disease.
- These models facilitate the identification of therapeutic targets and vaccine efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Mouse models are essential for advancing our understanding of infectious diseases.
- A diverse array of mouse models exists, with new resources continually emerging.
- Continued use and development of mouse models are critical for combating infectious agents.
