Based on the genetic alterations found in humans, multiple models of human pathologies have been generated in genetically engineered or drug-induced animals. These experimental models are valuable tools for understanding the physiopathology of the disease and discovering novel therapeutic targets and drugs. In fact, one avenue holding tremendous potential to find therapies against human diseases is the use of intact living systems, where complex biological processes can be examined.

The aim of this Special Issue is to collate original research articles as well as review articles that will stimulate continuing efforts in developing animal models, ranging from invertebrates to large animals, to be used in preclinical applications, improving therapy in various fields of medicine (oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, endocrinology, brain pathologies, etc.). We are particularly interested in manuscripts that report naturally occurring, induced, or engineered animal models of human diseases and their preclinical applications. Reviews that summarize all animal models for a particular pathology, their involvement in preclinical trials, and their future in treatment practice are also particularly welcome.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Modeling glioblastoma in rodents
• The use of animal models in the study of obesity
• The value of animal models for drug development in autoimmune diseases
• The genetics of cardiovascular disease: new insights from animal models
• Understanding the pathogenesis and therapy of ataxia telangiectasia (AT) via animal models
• Experimental animal models of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, and osteoarthritis
• Small model organisms for neurodegenerative diseases
• Large animal models of heart failure
• The pig: a representative animal model for humans
• Modeling human disease using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans
• Drosophila model of human diseases
• Zebrafish models in oncology
• Humanized mice to mimic human immune system
• CRISPR/Cas9 animal models