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Novel Sxr(a) ES cell line offers hope for Y chromosome gene-targeted mice
Elizabeth M Simpson1, Kevin A Johnson, Bobbi-Jo Shirley
1Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, British Columbia Research Institute for Children's and Women's Health, and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. simpson@cmmt.ubc.ca
Abstract:
A mouse targeted for a Y Chromosome gene has not been reported. Because the Y Chromosome is present in only one copy, and most of its genes are critical for germ cell development, such a mouse would likely be infertile. Thus, we describe a new reproductive strategy to enable transmission of targeted Y Chromosome genes to subsequent generations. The strategy uses two segregating copies of Y Chromosome genes to mimic the autosomal condition. To achieve this, we developed a new embryonic stem cell line from the XYSxr(a) mouse, which carries a duplication of the gene-rich Y Chromosome short arm. Importantly, we demonstrate germ line transmission of the YSxr(a) chromosome and describe this significant new tool as a practical solution to enable reproduction in mice targeted for Y Chromosome genes.