Improved and Diverse Research Models

A greater variety of small animal models (along with corresponding suites of tools such as species-specific antibodies, annotated genomes, transgenics, etc.) would enable novel biological insights and could be used to develop models of complex human diseases. Additional rodent models, as well as those beyond mouse and rat would be highly enabling. More realistic models are also critical for aging research–many diseases of aging are studied in young animals. Analytical tools are also important to make it easier for researchers to understand a) limitations of their research models, b) be aware of superior but less commonly used models. For example, a “Maniatis” style handbook detailing which human pathophysiology is mirrored in different species.