Nontraditional models as research tools: the road not taken

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Translational Science
• Animal Models

Background:

• Historical factors have led to the predominant use of a few species, notably Mus musculus, in biomedical research.
• This reliance is due to pre-existing resources and tools rather than inherent suitability for modeling human diseases.
• The current research trajectory is constrained by the limitations of these traditional models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the historical basis for the selection of mainstream animal models in biomedical research.
• To highlight the limitations imposed by the narrow range of traditional models.
• To advocate for the expansion of nontraditional research models to enhance scientific progress.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical trends in animal model selection.
• Analysis of resource availability and its impact on model adoption.
• Comparative assessment of traditional versus nontraditional model utility for human disease research.

Main Results:

• The selection of Mus musculus as a primary research model was driven by historical availability of tools and resources.
• The relevance of Mus musculus to specific human diseases is not the primary driver of its widespread use.
• Progress in biomedical research is significantly limited by the restricted range of models currently employed.

Conclusions:

• The continued reliance on a limited set of traditional animal models restricts the potential for significant breakthroughs in biomedical research.
• Expanding the utilization and diversity of nontraditional research models is essential for improving the clinical relevance of scientific findings.
• A broader adoption of novel models is necessary to overcome the inherent limitations of historically established research subjects.