Xenocortical mice: what can we learn, and how should this research progress?

Abstract

A new study by researchers at Stanford University describes the development of 'xenocortical mice': mice with a cortex comprised almost entirely of human-derived neurons. Their groundbreaking research has the potential to enable medical breakthroughs for a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The researchers offer detailed analysis of the neurophysiological and behavioral properties of these chimeric mice, comparing them with both wild-type control mice, and 'apallial' mice lacking most of their cortex. Here, we outline some key findings from the study and ask what these findings tell us about the capacity for consciousness in these mice, as well as their potential for human-like properties of cognition or conscious experience. Based on this discussion, we summarize the ethical and regulatory landscape relevant to chimeric animals and lay out an ethically-informed research roadmap to guide future research in this important area.