The role genetically engineered mice could play in fighting Lyme disease
Scientists are exploring the use of genetically engineered mice to combat Lyme disease transmission. The focus is on wild mice, which are primary carriers of the disease, rather than the more commonly associated deer or ticks. This innovative approach aims to disrupt the infection cycle that allows Lyme disease to thrive in certain regions of the United States.
- ▪Genetic engineering is being considered as a method to reduce Lyme disease transmission on Nantucket Island.
- ▪Wild white-footed mice are the main hosts for Lyme bacteria, facilitating the disease's spread through ticks.
- ▪The project aims to interrupt the infection cycle necessary for Lyme disease to flourish.
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60 Minutes - Newsmakers Scientists focus on genetically engineering mice to cut Lyme disease transmission .chip { background-image: url('/fly/bundles/cbsnewscore/images/chip-bgd/chip-bgd-60-minutes.jpg'); } By Jon LaPook Jon LaPook Chief Medical Correspondent Jon LaPook, M.D. is the award-winning chief medical correspondent for CBS News. Since joining CBS News in 2006, LaPook has delivered more than 1,500 reports on a wide variety of breaking news and trending stories in the health and medical fields, as well as feature stories on music, lifestyle and profiles of entertainment stars. Read Full Bio Jon LaPook Updated on: May 24, 2026 / 7:00 PM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google This is an updated version of a story first published on Sept. 21, 2025.
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