Humanized model organisms are powerful biological models that allow scientists to study human disease genes in simpler contexts without losing the value of in vivo studies. In either C. elegans or Zebrafish, a native model organism gene can be replaced by a human gene with the same biological function. After this, mutations can be introduced into the human gene to make a disease variant. Alternatively, the human gene can be expressed in specific tissues or stages of development.
Despite being microscopic in size, C. elegans are perfect for humanization due to their similarities with the human genome, their short lifespan, and many more reasons. Check out the infographic below to learn a bit more about why C. elegans make an incredible animal model to use in humanized transgenics.
References:
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