Understanding Mice in Medical Research

The video discusses the limitations of using lab mice in research due to their inbred nature and sterile environments, which make them less representative of human immune systems. It highlights the potential of using wild mice and new mouse models like the Collaborative Cross and Diversity Outbred mice to improve research outcomes. These models offer more genetic diversity and human-like immune responses, aiding in the development of better treatments. The video concludes with a mention of data analysis as a crucial research skill.

Why do some researchers believe wild mice can be more useful than lab mice in research?

• Wild mice have more diverse diets.

• Wild mice have immune systems more similar to humans.

• Wild mice are easier to breed.

• Wild mice are less expensive to maintain.

What is a primary reason for using lab mice in research?

• They are genetically diverse.

• They are easy to train.

• Their genetic makeup is well understood.

• They have a short lifespan.

What is a significant drawback of using inbred lab mice for research?

• They require special diets.

• They are too aggressive.

• They have limited genetic variation.

• They are difficult to house.

How do wild mice differ from lab mice in terms of immune response?

• Wild mice are more prone to diseases.

• Wild mice have more human-like immune responses.

• Wild mice have slower immune reactions.

• Wild mice have weaker immune systems.

What was a key finding of the 2016 study on lab mice exposed to viruses?

• Lab mice became more aggressive.

• Lab mice adapted and showed more wild-like immune responses.

• Lab mice showed no change in immune response.

• Lab mice developed new diseases.

What effect did wild roommates have on lab mice in the study?

• They improved lab mice's immune responses.

• They made lab mice more aggressive.

• They had no effect on lab mice.

• They caused lab mice to become sick.

What is the Collaborative Cross initiative?

• A breeding program combining lab and wild mice.

• A new type of lab equipment.

• A breeding program for wild mice.

• A new type of lab diet.

What is the purpose of Diversity Outbred mice?

• To provide a more genetically diverse sample.

• To create a new species of mice.

• To simplify breeding processes.

• To reduce the cost of research.

What gene was identified in Diversity Outbred mice related to cancer?

• A gene related to hair color.

• A gene related to tumor suppression.

• A gene related to metabolism.

• A gene related to growth rate.

Why is studying wild mice in the lab beneficial?

• It speeds up the research process.

• It reduces the cost of experiments.

• It helps identify more relevant disease treatments.

• It eliminates the need for lab mice.