MUTANT MOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A mutant mouse refers to a laboratory mouse that has undergone genetic alterations resulting in the presence of one or more distinct and heritable modifications in their genetic makeup. These modifications can involve the addition, deletion, or alteration of specific genes, leading to a change in the mouse's physical characteristics, physiology, or susceptibility to diseases.
Mutant mice are widely employed in scientific research, primarily in the field of genetics and biomedical sciences. Their use allows scientists to study the effects of specific genes on the development, functioning, and pathology of various biological systems. By generating mice with genetic mutations similar to those observed in certain human diseases, researchers can gain valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions. This enables the exploration of potential therapeutic targets, the testing of novel treatments, and the development of animal models that mimic human diseases more accurately.
The creation and study of mutant mice often involve advanced techniques such as gene targeting, genetic engineering, and genome editing. These methods allow scientists to manipulate the mouse genome with precision, introducing desired genetic changes and creating mice with specific traits of interest. By comparing the behavior and characteristics of mutant mice with those of normal mice (often referred to as wild-type mice), researchers can discern the role of individual genes, proteins, or signaling pathways in various biological processes.
In summary, a mutant mouse is a laboratory-bred mouse with inheritable changes in its genetic material, created to study the influence of specific genes on traits, diseases, and biological mechanisms.
Common Misspellings for MUTANT MOUSE
- nutant mouse
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- mutznt mouse
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- mutabt mouse
Etymology of MUTANT MOUSE
The etymology of the phrase "mutant mouse" is derived from two different origins.
The word "mutant" traces back to the Latin term "mutare", which means "to change". In biology, a mutation refers to a change in the genetic material of an organism, leading to a new characteristic or trait.
The word "mouse" has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic term "musǭ". It shares its roots with various Germanic languages' words for a small rodent.
When combined, "mutant mouse" is a phrase used to refer to a mouse that has undergone a genetic mutation, resulting in a change in its genetic makeup and thus exhibiting different traits or characteristics compared to its non-mutated counterparts.
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