Model Organisms in Infectious Diseases: Humanized Mice

We are pleased to introduce the collection, Model Organisms in Infectious Diseases: Humanized Mice. Model organisms are powerful tools in basic and translational biomedical research. Various mammalian models including mouse, rat, rabbit, pig, and non-human primates are used to study pathogenesis, pathophysiology, immunology, biochemistry, and genetics of human diseases. Pre-clinical animal models also play a critical role in developing therapeutic or preventive interventions targeting many human diseases. Yet, a direct translation of research findings to the clinic is challenged by the natural differences between humans and other model organisms. As scientists are trying to overcome these challenges, humanized mice engrafted with human genes, cells, or tissues are becoming increasingly popular as surrogate models in many areas of biomedical research.

This article collection will showcase studies describing the significance of humanized mice as model organisms within the field of infectious diseases. Over the years, researchers have been able to develop humanized mice engrafted with various human components that are critical to study host-pathogen interactions, pathogen life cycles, pathobiology, immunobiology, and molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases. Such models also support testing novel drugs targeting specific pathogen stages. Likewise, the humanized mice reconstituted with functional human immune systems could facilitate the understanding of protective immune mechanisms of novel immunotherapeutics and vaccines.

In this collection, we welcome original articles featuring the latest advancements in humanized mouse models in any area of infectious diseases research ranging from the modeling of infections to the development of vaccines or therapeutics.