I really like that House is conceptually based on Sherlock Holmes. Antisocial genius with a loyal assistant and an on and off girlfriend who is sometimes in his way or against him.
House is Holmes, Wilson is Watson, Cuddy is Irene Adler, and the crimes are medical mysteries. And they both end with Holmes/House faking his death for the sake of Watson/Wilson.
"Let's play house; i'll be the mommy!"
"I'll be the daddy!"
"I'll be the college researcher who's studies show that whatever you do will screw up your kid!"