Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
09:30

Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies

Published on: March 17, 2023

Microbiological contamination in genetically modified animals and proposals for a microbiological test standard for

H Yamamoto1, H Sato, K Yagami

  • 1Laboratory Animal Research Center, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.

Experimental Animals
|January 5, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Genetically modified mice (GMM) show high microbiological contamination, posing risks during transfer. A proposed microbiological requirement aims to guide the safe transfer and procurement of GMM in Japan.

Area of Science:

  • Laboratory animal science
  • Biosafety
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Genetically modified mice (GMM) are crucial research models.
  • Microbiological contamination in GMM can compromise research integrity and animal welfare.
  • Previous investigations into GMM contamination episodes were limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate microbiological contamination in GMM.
  • To assess countermeasures for contaminated GMM transfers.
  • To propose a microbiological requirement for GMM procurement in Japan.

Main Methods:

  • Questionnaires distributed to 53 JALAN facilities.
  • Serological tests conducted on transferred GMM.
  • Analysis of contamination data and implemented countermeasures.

Main Results:

  • Widespread microbiological contamination detected in GMM, both domestically and internationally.
  • Commonly detected pathogens include Mycoplasma pulmonis, mouse parvovirus, and mouse encephalomyelitis virus.
  • Contaminated GMM were often accepted with conditions like rederivation or segregated housing.

Conclusions:

  • GMM exhibit higher and broader microbiological contamination compared to commercially bred mice.
  • Existing countermeasures are insufficient to prevent contamination during GMM transfer.
  • A standardized microbiological requirement is proposed to enhance GMM safety in Japan.

More Related Videos

Production of Germ-Free Fast-Growing Broilers from a Commercial Line for Microbiota Studies05:51

Production of Germ-Free Fast-Growing Broilers from a Commercial Line for Microbiota Studies

Published on: June 18, 2020

Operating and Biocontainment Procedures of a Facility for Laboratory Mice with a Natural Microbiome: Immunophenotyping Procedure05:34

Operating and Biocontainment Procedures of a Facility for Laboratory Mice with a Natural Microbiome: Immunophenotyping Procedure

Published on: December 13, 2024

Related Concept Videos

Bioreactor Controls-III01:22

Bioreactor Controls-III

Strain improvement is a foundational strategy in industrial microbiology aimed at maximizing microbial productivity, particularly because natural isolates typically yield commercially valuable products in very low concentrations. Although optimizing the culture medium and environmental conditions can improve yields, these adjustments are inherently limited by the organism’s genetic potential. As a result, the focus shifts toward genetic modifications to enhance biosynthetic capacity. The...
Key Techniques in Microbiology01:19

Key Techniques in Microbiology

Aseptic techniques prevent contamination, ensure experimental accuracy, and protect researchers and microbial cultures. These techniques are essential in clinical, industrial, and research settings where sterility is required.Maintaining Sterility in Laboratory PracticesScientists maintain sterility by sterilizing tools with heat or chemicals, disinfecting work surfaces, and handling cultures in controlled environments. Working near an open flame or within a laminar flow hood reduces the risk...
Microbes in Food Production01:29

Microbes in Food Production

Microbial fermentation is central to food biotechnology, enhancing flavor, texture, preservation, and stability. Fermentative microorganisms metabolize carbohydrates into organic acids, alcohols, and other metabolites that inhibit spoilage organisms and improve digestibility while contributing distinctive sensory qualities.In baking, amylases naturally present in flour hydrolyze starch into monosaccharides such as glucose, which Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferments anaerobically. Through...