The GT Mouse

[The following text is an example or "case", which can serve as a starting point for reflection and discussion. Some examples may be based on real events, while others are fictional representations.] 
 
A researcher has found a variant of a protein that seems to affect a gene that leads to the development of breast cancer. The researcher is trying to understand how this happens. 

Mice are used in this research because they are suitable models for the processes that occur in humans. In advance, a very special mouse has been bred that carries the gene in question, the ‘GT mouse’. It has taken several years to breed this mouse, and many others have died along the way. Every animal experiment in the project is approved by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. At the same time, they encourage people to think about alternatives to animal models. When the scientist mentions this request to his boss, he dismisses her. ‘Nothing can compete with our animal models,’ he replies. 

The research project has reached a stage that requires the use of many animals. Tiny variations need to be made each time to find out what affects the protein. The mice that become sick quickly have a short lifespan. Other mice experience mild symptoms, but unexpected and painful side effects. The researchers must decide how far to push the experiments before the mice are euthanized. By pushing this limit, they will get an answer more quickly and possibly even an international breakthrough. 

• What should researchers consider at this stage of research?
• Do the researchers need to reflect further once they have received approval from the Norwegian Food Safety Authority? 
• Is it right for a boss to dismiss the younger researcher? What should he have discussed with her? 
• How should researchers deal with the dilemma of euthanasia vs. rapid results?

Note: This is a translation of the Norwegian original text by Johanne Svanes Oskarsen.