Model system

Definition

A model system is an organism or biological entity used to study specific biological processes. It provides insights that are often applicable across multiple species due to shared genetic and biochemical properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gregor Mendel used the pea plant (Pisum sativum) as his model system in his heredity experiments.
2. Model systems are chosen for their ease of manipulation, short generation times, and well-understood genetics.
3. The results obtained from model systems can often be generalized to other organisms, including humans.
4. Common characteristics of a good model system include availability, cost-effectiveness, and ethical acceptability.
5. Using model systems allows scientists to control environmental variables and genetic backgrounds more easily.

Review Questions

Related terms

Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism that determines its specific traits.

Phenotype: The observable physical or physiological traits of an organism determined by its genotype.

Allele:

One of two or more alternative forms of a gene that arise by mutation and are found at the same place on a chromosome.