Mouse NeuroBehavior Core

The mouse as a model for human disease is an indispensable tool for modern biomedical research. For example, scientists can manipulate the genes of a mouse (such as adding or deleting a known MS risk gene) and then observe the consequences of such gene manipulations. It’s a terrific tool to help understand the role of individual genes in human disease. In addition, “mouse models” – or mice that have been bred to exhibit the characteristics of a specific disease – are helpful for scientists to explore potential new therapies as well as further investigate underlying disease mechanisms.

Mouse models are truly crucial to accelerate the development of effective treatments and cures for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS and other neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center is leading the development of a major new, state of the art mouse behavior facility, located in the heart of the Harvard Medical School community. Its specialized focus will be neurodegenerative disease and it will be open to neuroscientists throughout the community. It is carefully designed to meet the exacting standards required for this crucial work. The facility also will include an on-site staff – including a PhD mouse model expert – to help neuroscientists and other investigators generate reliable and relevant data that will further their efforts to understand, treat and cure neurodegenerative disease.

The new Collaborative Mouse Behavior Core – to open by the end of this year – will provide the very best infrastructure and related expertise for neuroscientists. And, we are doing so collaboratively.