Final answer:
Mice are used as models for comparative genetic analysis of cystic fibrosis. They are chosen due to their genetic similarities to humans, allowing for research into human diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers use mouse models for comparative genetic analysis of cystic fibrosis. This animal model is particularly useful because mice share many genetic similarities with humans, which allows for the study of human diseases. Mice models have been instrumental in understanding various genetic conditions, including the mechanisms of cystic fibrosis. When it comes to Zoe's case mentioned in the question, cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder and is most commonly caused by inheriting two faulty CFTR alleles, one from each parent. This disease is therefore autosomal recessive, meaning that both parents must be carriers of the mutated allele for their child to have a chance of being affected by cystic fibrosis.