KNOCKOUT MOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A knockout mouse is a laboratory-created genetic model organism that has had a specific gene intentionally deactivated or "knocked out." This pioneering technique allows researchers to study the role of individual genes by observing the effects of their absence in mice, which share many biological similarities with humans. The process typically involves using embryonic stem cells to introduce modifications in the targeted gene, rendering it non-functional. These altered stem cells are then implanted into early-stage mouse embryos, and the resultant knockout mice are bred for subsequent generations.
Knockout mice serve as invaluable tools for scientific exploration, enabling scientists to investigate the significance of genes in various biological processes and disease development. By observing the changes in phenotype and behavior that occur in knockout mice, researchers can gain insights into the specific roles of genes and their potential implications in human health. This technique has contributed significantly to our understanding of genetic disorders, as it allows researchers to assess the importance of individual genes in disease progression, as well as to develop and test potential therapeutic interventions that may target these genes.
The creation and analysis of knockout mice have revolutionized the field of biomedical research, providing crucial information on gene functionality and its correlation with various physiological and pathological conditions.
Common Misspellings for KNOCKOUT MOUSE
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Etymology of KNOCKOUT MOUSE
The term "knockout mouse" is a compound word derived from two separate words: "knockout" and "mouse".
1. "Knockout": The word "knockout" originated from boxing and is used metaphorically to describe a punch that renders an opponent unconscious or unable to continue fighting. In molecular biology, the term "knockout" is applied to genetic manipulation techniques where a specific gene is inactivated or "knocked out", resulting in the loss of its normal function.
2. "Mouse": The word "mouse" refers to a small rodent belonging to the mammalian family Muridae and the scientific order Rodentia. Mice are commonly used as model organisms in scientific research, including genetic studies.
