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Pooled shRNA Screen for Reactivation of MeCP2 on the Inactive X Chromosome
Published on: March 2, 2018
Breeding and maintenance of an Mecp2-deficient mouse model of Rett syndrome
Denis G M Jugloff1, Richard Logan, James H Eubanks
1Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Ont., Canada.
Abstract:
In this report, we present a retrospective assessment of our experiences in maintaining a colony of Mecp2-deficient mice, and present conditions that we have found to foster breeding success of this mutant mouse strain. Data from our colony of mutant Mecp2 mice show that the Mecp2-null allele is under-represented in the weaned litter population, that litters born to heterozygous Mecp2-null females are consistently smaller in number than wild-type, and that fewer litters from heterozygous Mecp2-null females survive to weaning age than wild-type. Our results also reveal that overall litter viability is significantly higher in heterozygous Mecp2-null females that frequently breed, and that the addition of sunflower seeds to the cages of expecting dams improves the overall breeding success of these mice. Taken together, these data highlight the breeding tendencies for this mutant mouse strain, and from these data, we suggest strategies to maximise their breeding efficiency.
Insights
Maintaining Mecp2-deficient mice requires specific strategies. Adding sunflower seeds and ensuring frequent breeding in heterozygous Mecp2-null females significantly improves litter viability and breeding success in this mouse model.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Animal Models
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Mecp2 mutations are linked to severe neurological disorders.
- Establishing and maintaining Mecp2-deficient mouse colonies is crucial for research.
- Previous breeding protocols for Mecp2-null mice have shown limited success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively assess breeding challenges in Mecp2-deficient mice.
- To identify environmental and behavioral factors influencing breeding success.
- To propose optimized breeding strategies for Mecp2-null mouse colonies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of colony data.
- Comparison of litter size, survival rates, and breeding frequency between wild-type and Mecp2-deficient mice.
- Evaluation of dietary supplementation (sunflower seeds) and breeding frequency interventions.
Main Results:
- Mecp2-null allele under-representation observed in weaned litters.
- Heterozygous Mecp2-null females produced smaller litters with lower survival rates compared to wild-type.
- Frequent breeding and sunflower seed supplementation significantly increased litter viability.
Conclusions:
- Mecp2 deficiency presents significant breeding challenges in mice.
- Optimized breeding conditions, including diet and breeding frequency, are essential for colony maintenance.
- These findings provide practical strategies to enhance breeding efficiency for Mecp2-deficient mouse models.
