Laboratory mice are widely used in scientific research, but is this a random choice or is there something special about them?
According to Smithsonian Magazine, brown rats and house mice have been used for scientific studies since the 1850s and early 1900s, respectively. They are actually protected by a range of ethical rules regarding animal testing. These rules ensure that laboratory mice are only used when absolutely necessary.
Moreover, scientists often make considerable efforts to ensure that these mice remain comfortable. For instance, researchers have stopped handling mice by their tails after studies showed that this caused stress to the animals, as noted by Smithsonian Magazine.
The factors that contribute to why brown rats and house mice are used in research are quite complex and scientifically justified. Factors considered include the temperament of the animals, their high similarity to humans, and their good reproductive rates, according to Live Science.
Small and relatively harmless mice are an asset for scientists.
Unlike larger animals, mice reproduce quickly, according to Live Science. Their gestation period lasts only about three weeks, and just six weeks later, the pups can develop into sexually mature adults.
This means that it is possible to study multiple generations of mice within a single research program, allowing scientists to examine genetic inheritance across generations.
Additionally, mice are small, easily domesticated animals, so scientists typically do not encounter significant challenges when working with them. Furthermore, they are quite adaptable creatures, capable of acclimating to various environments, including the unusual settings of laboratories.
Moreover, mice are also relatively inexpensive, helping to reduce research costs.
However, it is important to note that mice are not primates. While primates have a very close genetic relationship to humans (up to 95% similar), the use of primates in research remains highly controversial. Additionally, it should be mentioned that mouse genes are easily modified.
Humans and mice share 95% genetic similarity.
This means scientists can manipulate mice so that certain genes are disabled or locked. They refer to these modified mice as “knockout mice,” and they are beneficial for researchers who are keen to understand what specific genes might cause diseases. By knocking out a gene in some mice while keeping it in others, they can investigate how that gene contributes to disease in humans.
Another type of genetically modified rodent is the transgenic mouse. This type is engineered to carry foreign DNA. This is an effective way to model specific diseases that affect humans and to study genetic functions.
And consider this: science is also a field built upon the foundations of past work. As mentioned, the use of mice in laboratories is incredibly common and growing exponentially; this growth may be the reason for the popularity of mice in experiments. If a scientist chooses to use a particular animal in an experiment, that species is often selected for similar or related studies.
As the most common laboratory animal, mice have contributed to numerous scientific achievements, much of what these creatures endure daily in laboratories is largely unknown to the public. Not just anyone can use mice in experiments. Scientists must be trained in ethics and animal treatment guidelines before they are allowed to “work” with them in the lab. Treatment rules vary by country. In Canada and Europe, scientists are subject to oversight by a national regulatory body; in the U.S., they must adhere to individual organizational regulations and the general guidelines of the National Institutes of Health. Most universities in the U.S. offer training courses on how to handle mice to minimize stress and pain during experiments. The protocols are updated annually to reflect our evolving understanding of the species. |
