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Published online 1 April 2004 | Nature | doi:10.1038/news040329-12
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The Renaissance rat
Thanks to the availability of its genome sequence, and the promise of new genetically engineered strains, the rat is restoring its reputation as researchers' favourite lab animal.
Ratstend to provoke strong reactions. Many people, repulsed by the rodents' tendency to feast on refuse and to spread disease, hate them.
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