Use of genetically modified mouse models for evaluation of carcinogenic risk: Considerations for the laboratory animal scientist

There has been increasing interest in the use of selected genetically modif ied (GM) mouse models for the testing of chemicals to determine their carci nogenic potential. GM mouse models are believed to be useful tools that off er mechanistically relevant insights for understanding and predicting the h uman response to chemical exposure. They have been proposed as alternatives to the traditional 2-year mouse oncogenicity bioassay. In this overview we will review the GM mouse models that have been proposed as bioassay altern atives and present some of the key laboratory animal science challenges tha t need to be considered when using these unique animals.