The Collaborative Cross at Oak Ridge National Laboratory: developing a powerful resource for systems genetics

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Systems Biology
• Animal Models

Background:

• Complex traits and disease comorbidities arise from gene and environmental interactions.
• Existing genetic models lack the diversity and resolution for comprehensive systems genetics analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a genetically diverse mouse resource, the Collaborative Cross, for systems genetics.
• To support high-dimensional studies of complex traits and disease phenotypes.

Main Methods:

• Initiated breeding of the Collaborative Cross mouse population.
• Systematic management using software-assisted breeding with traceable lineages.
• High-throughput phenotyping and DNA banking of retired breeders.

Main Results:

• Currently 650 lines in production, with nearly 200 lines beyond the seventh generation of inbreeding.
• Established a controlled breeding environment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
• Developed protocols for phenotyping and genetic sample banking.

Conclusions:

• The Collaborative Cross provides a powerful, genetically diverse resource for systems genetics.
• This resource will facilitate investigations into biomolecular networks and complex trait underpinnings.
• Ongoing development ensures a robust platform for future genetic and phenotypic research.