After finding a gene that causes a disease, researchers often introduce the defective allele into mice to create an animal model of the disease. Why are these models valuable?
a. They allow the testing of potential drug therapies without endangering human patients.
b. They allow the sequencing of the mutant allele.
c. They allow the production of large quantities of the defective gene product, usually a protein.
d. They allow the study of how the gene was transmitted from parents to offspring.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of creating animal models: Researchers use animal models to study diseases in a controlled environment, which helps in understanding the disease mechanisms and testing treatments.
2. Consider option a: Animal models, like mice, are used to test potential drug therapies safely before human trials, reducing risks to human patients.
3. Evaluate option b: Sequencing of the mutant allele is typically done using DNA samples and does not require an animal model.
4. Assess option c: While animal models can produce proteins, the primary goal is not to produce large quantities of the defective gene product.
5. Analyze option d: Studying gene transmission is more related to genetic studies and breeding experiments rather than the primary use of disease models.

Key Concepts

Animal Models in Research

Animal models, such as mice, are crucial in biomedical research because they mimic human disease conditions, allowing researchers to study disease mechanisms and test potential treatments. These models provide a controlled environment to observe the effects of genetic mutations and evaluate drug efficacy and safety before human trials.

Gene Transmission and Inheritance

Understanding how genes are transmitted from parents to offspring is fundamental in genetics. This concept involves studying inheritance patterns, which can reveal how genetic disorders are passed through generations. Animal models help researchers observe these patterns in a controlled setting, providing insights into hereditary diseases.

Drug Development and Testing

Drug development involves creating and testing new medications to treat diseases. Animal models are essential in this process as they allow researchers to test drug effects and safety without risking human health. This step is crucial for identifying promising therapies and understanding their potential impacts before clinical trials.