MSU Innovation Center

MSU scientists are expanding the research toolbox far beyond traditional models like mice and fruit flies. As evolutionary biologist Jason Gallant explains, breakthroughs in genetics now allow researchers to tap into the biological innovation found across millions of species.

At MSU, that work spans electric fish that help illuminate nervous‑system function, pitcher plants that model microbiome and pH interactions, brown bears that reveal metabolic regulation during hibernation, venomous snakes that shed light on gene evolution, fish models that support biomedical discovery, and transparent water fleas that allow scientists to watch infections unfold.

These unconventional models open new pathways for understanding human health, ecology and evolution. As Gallant said, “We don’t need to leave the mouse behind. We just need to invite the rest of life into the lab.”

Read the full story: https://innovationcenter.msu.edu/genetic-advances-inspire-new-frontiers/
Interested in partnering with MSU innovators? Contact us: https://innovationcenter.msu.edu/contact