animal model

noun

: an animal sufficiently like humans in its anatomy, physiology, or response to a pathogen to be used in medical research in order to obtain results that can be extrapolated to human medicine

also : a pathological or physiological condition that occurs in such an animal and is similar to one occurring in humans

Examples of animal model in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In animal models, endometriosis, a secondary cause of dysmenorrhea, led to depression. —Kristen Rogers, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024

The researchers are analyzing immune cells in animal models to propose different methods and vaccines to best target, and hopefully reduce, the harmful buildup of Aβ via modulating the body’s own immune system. —Linda Chase, Sun Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2024

The lobby is lined with sparkling white marble and littered with glass display cabinets containing golden animal models made by local artisans. —Caroline Reid, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

May Improve Cholesterol Levels Much of the research on the cholesterol-lowering effects of carom seeds is on animal models. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

animal model

noun

: an animal sufficiently like humans in its anatomy, physiology, or response to a pathogen to be used in medical research in order to obtain results that can be extrapolated to human medicine

also : a pathological or physiological condition that occurs in such an animal and is similar (as in its pathology or physiology) to a human condition

experimental allergic encephalomyelitis is a useful animal model in the study of multiple sclerosis in humans