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Forward Genetic Approach to Uncover Stress Resistance Genes in Mice — A High-throughput Screen in ES Cells
Published on: November 11, 2015
Creating a "hopeful monster": mouse forward genetic screens
Vanessa L Horner1, Tamara Caspary
1Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA. vlhorne@emory.edu
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|August 2, 2011
Summary
Forward genetic screens in mice enable novel biological discoveries by identifying gene functions. This guide details creating mutations with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU), establishing mutant lines, and mapping mutations for accessible research.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The mouse genome is sequenced, yet many gene functions remain unknown.
- Forward genetic screens are powerful tools for uncovering gene function.
- Advances make mouse forward genetics accessible to smaller laboratories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive guide for conducting forward genetic screens in mice.
- To detail methods for mutation induction, line establishment, and mutation mapping.
- To empower researchers to perform forward genetics for biological discovery.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing chemical mutagenesis with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU).
- Implementing specific breeding schemes for mutant line establishment.
- Employing recombination-based methods for mutation mapping.
- Phenotypic analysis to confirm mutation causality.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of ENU mutagenesis protocols for efficient mutation induction.
- Outline of breeding strategies tailored to different screen types.
- Explanation of techniques for precise mutation mapping and validation.
Conclusions:
- Forward genetic screens in mice are a feasible approach for novel biological discoveries.
- This guide equips labs with the necessary knowledge to implement mouse forward genetics.
- Accessible methodologies facilitate broader research into mouse gene function.
Related Concept Videos
02:46Genetic Screens
Genetic screens are tools used to identify genes and mutations responsible for phenotypes of interest. Genetic screens help identify individuals or a group of people at risk of developing genetic diseases and help them with early intervention, targeted therapy, and reproductive options.
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...
01:16In-vitro Mutagenesis
To learn more about the function of a gene, researchers can observe what happens when the gene is inactivated or “knocked out,” by creating genetically engineered knockout animals. Knockout mice have been particularly useful as models for human diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
02:43Mouse Models of Cancer Study
Mice have long served as models for studying human biology and pathology because of their phylogenetic and physiological similarity with humans. They are also easy to maintain and breed in the laboratory, and hence, many inbred strains are now available for research. Studies on mice have contributed immeasurably to our understanding of cancer biology.
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...