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Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Identification of Homologous Recombination Events in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Using Southern Blotting and Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: November 20, 2018
Homologous recombination in rat germline stem cells
Mito Kanatsu-Shinohara1, Megumi Kato-Itoh, Masahito Ikawa
1Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan. mshinoha@virus.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Researchers achieved homologous recombination in rat germline stem (GS) cells, demonstrating gene targeting feasibility. However, long-term culture impacted their ability to produce offspring, highlighting challenges for generating knockout rats.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) possess germline potential, making them targets for genetic modification.
- Previous success in mouse SSCs demonstrated homologous recombination feasibility for generating knockout mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish homologous recombination in rat germline stem (GS) cells.
- To assess the feasibility of generating gene-targeted rats using GS cells.
Main Methods:
- Rat GS cells were established using culture plates with hydrophilic and neutrally charged surfaces.
- A drug selection protocol was developed for GS cells under hypoxic conditions.
- Homologous recombination targeting the Ocln gene was performed.
Main Results:
- Successful homologous recombination was achieved in rat GS cells with a frequency of 4.2% for the Ocln gene.
- Established GS cell lines failed to produce offspring after xenogeneic transplantation and microinsemination.
- Long-term culture and drug selection appeared to negatively affect GS cell function.
Conclusions:
- Gene targeting via homologous recombination is feasible in rat GS cells.
- Challenges remain in maintaining GS cell function for generating knockout rats.
- This study provides a foundation for future efforts in generating gene-targeted rats.
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