Reproductive genomics: FAQ (Frequently asked questions)

 

  1. Q. When I obtain a mouse line, will the mutated gene be known?

    A. Our NIH program is NOT supported for final gene cloning of the mutations that are made available to investigators - that will be the responsibility of the individual investigators who obtain the individual mutant models. 
  2. Q. What is the background strain for the Reproductive Genomics infertile mouse models? 

    A. We use C57BL6/J (B6) mice for ENU mutagenesis.  Two rounds of outcrossing to C3HeB/FeJ (C3H) are performed before intercrosses for mutant identification and mapping.
  3. Q. If the mutants are infertile, how is the line maintained?

    A. They are maintained as heterozygotes.  Intercrosses between heterozygotes yield homogygotes (25%), heterozygote carriers (50%), and non-carrier wild-type (25%).  These classes can be identified by genotyping with molecular markers.
  4. Q. Are all mutant mice immediately available?

    A. Not necessarily. Some mutant models are further along in the regional mapping process than others. However, we are happy to engage collaborators who will assist in the mapping and mutant analysis.
  5. Q. How do I obtain a mutant mouse line?

    A. Once you select the mouse model you want and confirm this with Reproductive Genomics staff, a breeding pair will be shipped to your location.  If you do not have the facilities to maintain a colony, the service is available through JAX Services®. 
  6. Q. What is the cost for obtaining a mutant mouse line?

    A. When a request is placed for a mutant, you will generate a PO to cover the cost of shipping. There are no other charges associated with obtaining our mice.
  7. Q. I don't want to receive a mouse model right now but I hope to obtain a mutant line in the future. How long will these mice be alive?

    A. If we are planning to take a family off the shelf for cryopreservation, we will post an announcement on our website and we'll also send an announcement to our mailing list. Please sign up for our mailing list if you want updates. After cryopreservation, the mutant mouse model will still be available, but instead of receiving live mice, you'll receive frozen sperm which will then need reconstitution. If you do not have the resources to recover the frozen sperm, the service is available through the Jackson Laboratory's Cryopreservation Resource.  All costs associated with recovery are your responsibility.
  8. Q. Once I request a mutant mouse, will the Reproductive Genomics group continue to maintain the line?

    A.  Mice will be cryopreserved within several months of being available on our web site, unless the line is selected for fine mapping in collaboration with the end user.  
  9. Q. What are my responsibilities to the Reproductive Genomics group once I take over the mouse line?

    A. We expect that you cite our group when publishing research that makes use of our mouse models. Our project is supported the NIH-NICHD (HD42137).