Given below are certain features of mouse. Read them and select why mouse is the most preferred animal for studies on gene transfer
(i) Short oestrous cycle and gestation period
(ii) Relatively short generation time
(iii) Covenient in vitro fertilisation
(iv) Production of several offspring per pregnancy

Options

A. (i) and (ii) only
B. (i) only
C. (i),(ii) and (iv) only
D. (i),(ii),(iii) and (iv)

Answer

To determine why mice are the most preferred animals for studies on gene transfer, we can analyze the given features step by step:

### Step 1: Analyze the Short Oestrous Cycle and Gestation Period
- Mice have a short oestrous cycle, which means they can breed frequently. The gestation period (the time a female mouse is pregnant) is also short, allowing for quick reproduction.
- **Conclusion**: This feature allows researchers to produce multiple generations in a relatively short time, making it easier to study genetic changes and effects.

### Step 2: Consider the Relatively Short Generation Time
- The generation time refers to the time it takes for an organism to grow to reproductive maturity and produce offspring. Mice reach maturity quickly.
- **Conclusion**: A short generation time enables researchers to observe the effects of gene transfer across several generations in a short period.

### Step 3: Evaluate the Convenience of In Vitro Fertilization
- Mice can undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF), which is a process where fertilization occurs outside the body. This allows for controlled breeding and genetic manipulation.
- **Conclusion**: The ability to perform IVF makes it easier to conduct experiments involving gene transfer and to produce genetically modified mice.

### Step 4: Assess the Production of Several Offspring per Pregnancy
- Female mice can give birth to multiple offspring in one pregnancy, typically ranging from 6 to 12 pups.
- **Conclusion**: This high reproductive rate provides a large sample size for experiments, which is beneficial for statistical analysis and validation of results.

### Final Conclusion:
All the features mentioned (short oestrous cycle and gestation period, relatively short generation time, convenience of in vitro fertilization, and production of several offspring per pregnancy) contribute to making mice the most preferred animal for studies on gene transfer. Therefore, all the statements are correct, and the answer is that all of these features make mice ideal for genetic studies.