Mouse Model Creation

Bring your research to life with mouse model creation services, offering customized and precise genetic engineering to develop models tailored to your study needs with the Mouse Biology Program.

Genetically modified mice are primarily created through two complementary approaches: targeted integration and random DNA integration. Targeted integration precisely inserts or modifies specific genes—often harnessing embryonic stem (ES) cells for large-scale edits or employing CRISPR/Cas tools for faster, cost-effective knockins and knockouts. Meanwhile, random integration typically relies on pronuclear injection or electroporation to insert DNA at unspecified genomic locations, generating transgenic mice that carry markers like LacZ or GFP. Selecting the right strategy depends on the scientific questions you aim to answer and the nature of the genetic alterations you need.

Comparison of ES cell-targeted, transgenic & CRISPR gene modification systems

ES Cell-Targeted Models
Transgenic Models
CRISPR Models

ES Cell-Targeted Models

ES cell-targeted models provide site-specific gene integration, making them highly precise. These models are ideal for complex modifications but involve longer development times and higher costs.

Advantage	Limitation
Site-specific integration, ensuring no unintended disruption of endogenous gene function.	Increased time to generate founders due to cell culture and germline transmission from chimeras.
Stable integration with consistent germline transmission.	Higher overall project cost compared to random transgenics and CRISPR.
Single-copy insertion reduces the risk of gene silencing.	Limited to the genetic background of available germline-competent ES cells.
	Multiple independent founders may be required to identify the desired expression pattern.

Transgenic Models

Transgenic models are a cost-effective option for generating founders rapidly. While they allow for broader genetic backgrounds, unpredictable insertion sites can result in confounding outcomes.

Advantage	Limitation
Lower overall project cost compared to ES cell-based targeting.	Unpredictable insertion sites may disrupt endogenous genes, leading to confounding phenotypes.
Rapid generation of founders, allowing faster study initiation.	Multiple insertion sites or copy numbers may cause gene silencing or reduced expression.
Not limited by genetic background, supporting diverse research needs.

CRISPR Models

CRISPR models offer faster, more cost-effective knockout creation compared to traditional ES cell methods. However, they require careful screening to manage potential off-target effects.

Advantage	Limitation
Lower overall project cost compared to ES cell-based targeting.	Lower flexibility in model design, especially for larger transgene insertions.
Shorter project timeframe; KO creation using CRISPR/Cas9 is about 1/3 the time of ES cell targeting.	Off-target effects must be identified and bred out in subsequent generations.
Not limited by genetic background, with high success rates in C57BL/6 backgrounds.

Let Us Help You Design Your Custom Research Model

You can bring your research vision to life with the Mouse Biology Program’s custom mouse model services. From designing tailored genetic modifications to delivering well-characterized models, we ensure precision, efficiency, and reliability at every step. Contact us today to discuss how our expertise can help you achieve your research goals.

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