Rapid Development of Small Rodent Animal Models for Infectious Disease Research Through Vectorized Receptor Molecule...

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Pathogenesis
• Animal Models

Background:

• Zoonotic viral outbreaks pose a significant global health threat.
• Effective pandemic response requires robust animal models for research and countermeasure development.
• Traditional animal model development is slow and faces logistical hurdles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review considerations for developing animal models using viral vector approaches.
• To discuss current vector-based animal models for viral pathogenesis and countermeasure evaluation.
• To highlight SARS-CoV-2 models using vectorized expression of human ACE2.

Main Methods:

• Gene therapy vectors are used to express human viral receptors in laboratory animals.
• This enables rapid development of animal models on various genetic backgrounds.
• Focus on models for studying viral pathogenesis and evaluating therapeutics.

Main Results:

• Vector-based approaches allow for rapid creation of relevant animal models.
• These models facilitate mechanistic studies and accelerated evaluation of countermeasures.
• Specific emphasis on SARS-CoV-2 models expressing human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.

Conclusions:

• Viral vector-mediated gene transfer is a powerful tool for rapid animal model generation.
• This approach enhances pandemic preparedness by accelerating research on emerging infectious diseases.
• Vector-based models are critical for understanding pathogenesis and developing effective interventions.