Genetic Model Species
Genetic Model Species - Related Videos
09:36
Genetic Engineering of Model Organisms
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2023
Transgenesis, or the use of genetic engineering to alter gene expression, is widely used in the field of developmental biology. Scientists use a number of approaches to alter the function of genes to understand their roles in developmental processes. This includes replacement of a gene with a nonfunctional copy, or adding a visualizable tag to a gene that allows the resultant fusion protein to be tracked throughout development. In this video, the viewers will learn about the principles behind...
11:45
Generation of Marked and Markerless Mutants in Model Cyanobacterial Species
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Cited by 36 •
2016
Introducing multiple genomic alterations into cyanobacteria is an essential tool in the development of strains for industrial and basic research purposes. We describe a system for generating unmarked mutants in the model cyanobacterial species Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 and marked mutants in Synechococcus sp. PCC7002.
08:45
Genetic Crosses
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2023
To dissect genetic processes or create organisms with novel suites of traits, scientists can perform genetic crosses, or the purposeful mating of two organisms. The recombination of parental genetic material in the offspring allows researchers to deduce the functions, interactions, and locations of genes. This video will examine how genetic crosses were influential in developing Mendel's three laws of inheritance, which form the basis of our understanding of genetics. One genetic crossing...
17:50
Preventing the Spread of Malaria and Dengue Fever Using Genetically Modified Mosquitoes
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Cited by 10 •
2007
In this candid interview, Anthony A. James explains how mosquito genetics can be exploited to control malaria and dengue transmission. Population replacement strategy, the idea that transgenic mosquitoes can be released into the wild to control disease transmission, is introduced as well as the concept of genetic drive and the design criterion for an effective genetic drive system. The ethical considerations of releasing genetically-modified organisms into the wild are also discussed.
12:26
Integrating Remote Sensing with Species Distribution Models; Mapping Tamarisk Invasions Using the Software for Assisted Habitat Modeling (SAHM)
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Cited by 34 •
2016
We demonstrate the utility of remotely sensed data and the newly developed Software for Assisted Habitat Modeling (SAHM) in predicting invasive species occurrence on the landscape. An ensemble of predictive models produced highly accurate maps of tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) invasion in Southeastern Colorado, USA when assessed with subsequent field validations.
FAQs
Their value for comparison comes from conserved genes, developmental processes, and cellular functions. When an experiment identifies a relationship between a gene and a phenotype in a model, researchers can examine whether the corresponding mechanism is shared elsewhere. The result supports broader biological interpretation, while recognizing that model findings investigate conserved mechanisms rather than assume every species is identical.
Standardized strains reduce biological variation unrelated to the research question, while controlled conditions make experiments easier to compare. Short generation times also allow researchers to obtain results across generations within practical study periods. Together with genomic resources, these features improve reproducibility and help investigators evaluate whether an observed genetic effect is consistent across experiments.
These approaches provide complementary evidence. Selective breeding and genetic crosses create or compare inherited variation, genome sequencing characterizes genetic information, and targeted gene modification examines the effects of particular genes. Used together, they help connect genes with traits, biological pathways, or disease-related phenotypes more directly than observation alone.
The appropriate model depends on the biological question and the experimental resources available. Collectively, these organisms support research in genetics, development, physiology, and evolution, while standardized strains, short generation times, and genomic resources enable controlled investigation. Researchers can therefore select a system whose established biology and available tools fit the process being examined.
A study can begin with a controlled strain, followed by selective breeding or genetic crosses to examine inherited differences. Researchers may then use genome sequencing to characterize genetic information and targeted gene modification to test a gene's contribution. Comparing resulting traits, pathways, or disease-related phenotypes helps connect genetic changes with biological outcomes.
Genetic model species contribute to genetics, development, physiology, and evolution by allowing biological processes to be examined under controlled conditions. They also support investigation of disease-related phenotypes and mechanisms that may inform human health. Their value extends beyond any single organism because conserved cellular and developmental functions can provide context for broader biological discovery.