What is the future of mouse-based research? Will researchers still be using them 10 or 15 years from today?

As additional alternatives are developed, science will naturally reduce the need and use of animal models. This progression will happen when viable alternatives exist and are scientifically validated. The scientific community looks forward to the day when animal testing and research is no longer needed in the future.

The mouse model will most likely be as important in 10-15 years as it is today:

Genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, have enabled faster, less expensive and more reliable methods of transgenic manipulation of the mouse genome, which could allow innovative experiments to be conducted.

Non-animal models are improving, but it is likely there will be a continued need to study treatments in the whole animal.

Mouse models, including humanized mice, will likely continue to be a valuable tool in personalized medicine (e.g., PDX, avatars).