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

Early studies have shown that removing these cells can improve tissue function and extend healthspan in animal models. —Abdo Riani, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

For its lead program in Friedreich ataxia (FA), the company has observed promising preclinical results, including restoration of frataxin (FXN) levels in patient cells and animal models. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 10 Mar. 2025

But Schmitz says evidence from animal models suggests that physical activity triggers a series of chemical reactions in cells that promote health in multiple ways. —Maria Godoy, NPR, 7 Apr. 2025

Research in animal models has shown that extreme heat can trigger what’s known as a maladaptive epigenetic memory, or lasting changes in DNA methylation patterns. —Eunyoung Choi, The Conversation, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for animal model

• caudal
• caudle
• dawdle
• twaddle
• waddle
• remodel

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