Fig. 1.

From mice to humans. Mouse models allow specific genes to be manipulated and tested for their effects on metabolism and physiology. These models can also be challenged in a number of ways to reveal phenotypes, for example by feeding a high fat diet. These models can provide tissues for physiological analysis and RNA, DNA, and protein for molecular analysis of any tissue at any stage of development or challenge. Suitable models can also be used for testing compounds that may target specific genes and pathways, in the search for therapeutic opportunities. The underling genes for testing may come from GWAS studies; they may also be identified in mouse mutagenesis programs as giving rise to relevant disease traits. Patients carrying mutations and polymorphisms in genes inform the genetics and allow cross correlation of the metabolic and physiological effects in models, directing the use of models and testing their validity