LURCHER MICE Meaning and
Definition
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Lurcher mice refer to a specific strain or type of laboratory mice that possess particular genetic attributes. These mice are commonly used in scientific research and experimentation in various fields including genetics, neurobiology, and pharmacology. The term "Lurcher" specifically indicates a genetic mutation found in these mice that affects their cerebellum, the region of the brain predominantly responsible for coordinating movement and balance.
The Lurcher mutation is characterized by the loss or significant reduction in the number of Purkinje cells within the cerebellum. Purkinje cells are specialized neurons that play a critical role in regulating motor coordination, learning, and fine motor control. Due to this genetic abnormality, Lurcher mice display an ataxic phenotype, meaning they exhibit uncoordinated and jerky movements, impaired balance, and an overall lack of motor control.
The study of Lurcher mice has been instrumental in understanding the functional importance of the cerebellum in motor coordination and balance. These mice have further served as valuable animal models for investigating various neurological disorders such as ataxia, cerebellar degeneration, and motor coordination impairments. By examining the behavior and physiological characteristics of Lurcher mice, researchers gain valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying these conditions, potentially leading to the development of new therapeutic approaches and treatments for related human disorders.
Common Misspellings for LURCHER MICE
- kurcher mice
- purcher mice
- ourcher mice
- lyrcher mice
- lhrcher mice
- ljrcher mice
- lircher mice
- l8rcher mice
- l7rcher mice
- luecher mice
- ludcher mice
- lufcher mice
- lutcher mice
- lu5cher mice
- lu4cher mice
- lurxher mice
- lurvher mice
- lurfher mice
- lurdher mice
- lurcger mice
Etymology of LURCHER MICE
The term "Lurcher Mice" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words.
1. Lurcher: The word "lurcher" originated from the Middle English word "lourchen" which means "to lurk" or "to lie in wait". It was originally used to refer to a dog breed that was bred for hunting and poaching during the medieval period in Europe. The term later evolved to refer to any mixed-breed dog used for hunting.
2. Mice: The word "mice" originated from the Old English word "mys" or "mysse", which is the plural form of "mus" meaning "mouse". The term has remained relatively unchanged over the years and continues to refer to small rodents of the Muridae family.
