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Generation of Transgenic Rats using a Lentiviral Vector Approach
Published on: May 17, 2020
Gene-manipulated embryonic stem cells for rat transgenesis
Masaki Kawamata1, Takahiro Ochiya
1Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|March 26, 2011
Summary
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from rats are now easier to genetically modify. This review highlights key examples of gene manipulation in rat ESCs, advancing their use in research.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Genetics
- Animal models
Background:
- Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are pluripotent cells derived from blastocysts.
- Mouse ESCs allow for genetic modification, but rat ESCs have historically been challenging to establish and manipulate.
- Rats offer advantages over mice for physiological and pharmacological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress and challenges in genetic manipulation of rat ESCs.
- To highlight successful examples of gene editing in rat ESCs.
- To underscore the potential of genetically modified rats in research.
Main Methods:
- Establishment of rat ESCs using signaling inhibitors.
- Application of gene introduction techniques (transgenic, knockin, knockout) in rat ESCs.
- Generation of genetically modified rats from modified ESCs.
Main Results:
- Rat ESCs were successfully established in 2008, overcoming pluripotency maintenance issues.
- Despite initial difficulties, gene manipulation in rat ESCs has seen documented successes.
- Genetically modified rats can now be produced, though challenges remain.
Conclusions:
- Genetic modification of rat ESCs is advancing, despite historical difficulties.
- The ability to genetically modify rats enhances their utility as a model organism.
- Further research into efficient gene manipulation techniques for rat ESCs is warranted.
