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Muriel Davisson facts for kids

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Muriel Davisson is an American geneticist who made a big difference in understanding Down syndrome. She created a special mouse model that helps researchers study this condition.

Muriel Davisson grew up in Maine. She finished high school in 1959. Later, she earned her Ph.D. from Penn State University in 1969.

Her Important Work

Dr. Davisson worked at the Jackson Laboratory, a famous research center. She was in charge of Genetic Resource Science there. Her main goal was to create special mouse models. These models help scientists learn about human genetic problems.

Understanding Down Syndrome

One of her most important creations was the Ts65Dn mouse model. This mouse helps scientists study Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that affects how a person develops. By studying these mice, researchers can learn more about the condition. They can also test new treatments.

Helping Develop New Medicines

The mice Dr. Davisson developed have been very important. They have been used in many studies about Down syndrome. These studies have led to new ideas for drug therapies. These therapies aim to help people with Down syndrome.

Awards and Recognition

In 2002, the National Down Syndrome Society honored Dr. Davisson. They named her "Researcher of the Year." This award showed how much her work means to the Down syndrome community. She is now semi-retired from Jackson Laboratory.

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