The effects of housing temperature on mouse physiology and implications for disease modeling

Housing temperature has a critical role in preclinical research by affecting the physiological and metabolic responses of laboratory mice. Exposure to temperatures below the thermoneutral zone triggers adaptive responses, such as behavioral changes, increased energy expenditure and altered immune function, which can obscure experimental results and hinder the applicability of findings to the human physiology. Here we explore how considering the impact of housing temperature in preclinical research can improve the accuracy of disease models, particularly in metabolic disorders, immunity, cancer biology and exercise physiology. In addition, we discuss how housing temperature impacts the outcomes of pharmacological interventions through effects on energy expenditure and body mass. Lastly, we provide recommendations for best practices in preclinical research that aim to improve research methodology and translational potential of preclinical models.