ENU mutagenesis: Analyzing gene function in mice

With the completion of the human genome, sequence analysis of gene function will move into the center of future genome research. One of the key strategies for studying gene function involves the genetic dissection of biological processes in animal models. Mouse mutants are of particular importance for the analysis of disease pathogenesis and transgenic techniques, and gene targeting have become routine tools. Recently, phenotype-driven strategies using chemical mutagenesis have been the target of increasing interest. In this review, the current state of ENU mutagenesis and its application as a systematic tool of genome analysis are examined.