A new mouse model of Down Syndrome

Researchers in the US and Canada have created a new mouse that is hoped will serve as a better model to understand some biological mechanisms leading to disabilities in DS. At present there are about half-a-dozen mouse models, however the new mouse is the first to express three copies of all of the mouse equivalents to the human genes. This is important because if a particular gene in three copies is responsible for a particular feature of DS then this can now be observed. Also, if one gene in three copies acts together with another gene in three copies then this can also be observed. Behaviour testing in these mice revealed they had learning problems. Events resulting from the disruption of so many genes as in DS is a complicated process, but at least, in a manner of speaking, we have now rounded up all the suspects.

Find the report here.

Randal