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Mice in translational neuroscience: What R we doing?
Garikoitz Azkona1, Rosario Sanchez-Pernaute2
1Department of Basic Psychological Processes and Their Development-School of Psychology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain.
Progress in Neurobiology
|July 25, 2022
Summary
Mice models hinder neuroscience drug translation. Utilizing non-human primates and comparative studies, alongside improved resources and multidisciplinary teams, is crucial for advancing brain disorder research and patient treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Translational Research
- Animal Models
Background:
- Animal models are vital for translational neuroscience, but issues like poor data quality, lack of biomarkers, and over-reliance on mice limit progress, causing high drug translation attrition rates.
- Despite global initiatives, mice remain the preferred model for human brain disorders, despite limited translational relevance due to lower brain complexity and homology.
- Access to larger animals like non-human primates is restricted by resource limitations, training deficits, stringent legislation, and ethical concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the limitations of current animal models in translational neuroscience.
- To advocate for a shift towards more appropriate animal models and improved research practices.
- To emphasize the need for policy changes and increased resources to enhance the efficiency of neuroscience drug translation.
Main Methods:
- Review of current practices and challenges in animal model selection and utilization in neuroscience research.
- Analysis of the translational limitations of mouse models versus the potential of non-human primates and lower species.
- Discussion of resource allocation, training needs, legislative frameworks, and the role of multidisciplinary teams, including veterinarians.
Main Results:
- Current reliance on mouse models significantly impedes the translation of neuroscience findings into effective patient treatments.
- Non-human primates offer greater translational value due to higher brain complexity and homology to humans.
- Comparative studies in lower species are undervalued but essential for toxicology, target identification, and mechanistic insights.
Conclusions:
- A conceptual and policy shift is urgently required in neuroscience research to improve translational efficiency and patient outcomes.
- Increased resources for training, education, husbandry, and data sharing are necessary, alongside multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Revising legislation and embracing a broader range of animal models, including non-human primates and lower species, are critical steps forward.
