Question

part b: analyzing data
question 1
why do you think scientists track the genes of other organisms such as rats or mice in the database? do you think rat genes are important to human gene research?

Explanation:

Scientists track genes of organisms like rats/mice because these organisms (model organisms) have genetic similarities to humans. Rats/mice share many gene functions and biological pathways with humans. Studying their genes helps understand human gene functions, disease mechanisms (as they can be used in disease models), and test gene - related therapies. Rat genes are important to human gene research: their genetic makeup is close enough to humans that insights from rat gene studies (e.g., how genes regulate development, respond to diseases) can be extrapolated to human biology, aiding in understanding human genetic disorders, developing treatments, and studying gene - environment interactions.

Answer:

Scientists track genes of rats/mice as they are model organisms with genetic similarities to humans, aiding in understanding human gene functions and disease mechanisms. Rat genes are important to human gene research as their genetic makeup is close to humans, helping in studying genetic disorders and developing treatments.