Studying Gene Function: By creating animals with specific genetic modifications (e.g., gene knockouts or knock-ins), researchers can observe how these changes affect the organism’s development, physiology, and behavior. This helps elucidate the role of particular genes.
Developing Disease Models: Gene editing allows for the creation of animal models that carry genetic mutations associated with human diseases. These models are essential for understanding disease mechanisms and testing potential therapies.
Testing Therapeutic Strategies: Researchers use edited animals to test the efficacy and safety of new treatments, including gene therapies. This helps evaluate how well these strategies might work in humans and identify any potential issues.
Investigating Complex Traits: For traits influenced by multiple genes, gene editing can help dissect the contributions of individual genes to complex conditions, such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases.
Improving Agricultural Animals: Gene editing is also used to enhance traits in livestock, such as disease resistance or improved growth rates, contributing to more efficient and sustainable agriculture.
Overall, gene editing in animal models provides critical insights that drive forward biomedical research and the development of new therapies.
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