ANSC 3980 - Animals in Biomedical Research

Spring (offered in odd-numbered years only). 2 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level biology; BIOAP 1100 or equivalent introductory physiology course.

X. Lei.

This course introduces features and applications of various animal models and related cutting-edge tools for biomedical research on human health and diseases. Examples will be given on appropriate animal models for studying human diseases related to diabetes, bone, infection, brain, eye, and nutritional deficiencies. Model species include food-producing animals, recreational/companion animals, and laboratory animals. Lectures cover basic biology, common uses of animals in biomedical research, and unique applications of selected species for target human disease. Comparative physiology between model species and humans, advantages and limitations of given models, regulations of biomedical uses of animals, and combined applications of animal models with omics, machine learning, and big data are also discussed.

Outcome 1: To recognize the importance, contribution, and potential of animal models for biomedical research.

Outcome 2: To explain physiological bases and molecular mechanisms of animals in modelling human health and disease.

Outcome 3: To describe established animal models for studying pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of common human diseases.

Outcome 4: To understand the physiological basis of animals as models of human health and disease.

Outcome 5: To explore novel animal models, new applications, and rewarding careers for biomedical research.

Outcome 6: To be aware of limitations and regulations of animal models for biomedical research.