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Updated: May 30, 2026
07:06
Principles of Site-Specific Recombinase (SSR) Technology
Published on: May 29, 2008
Multiple new site-specific recombinases for use in manipulating animal genomes
Aljoscha Nern1, Barret D Pfeiffer, Karel Svoboda
1Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147-2408, USA.
Summary
Four yeast-derived site-specific recombinases show high activity and low toxicity in animal genome engineering. These recombinases, including KD, B2, B3, and R, exhibit distinct target specificities, expanding tools for genetic manipulation.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Animal Biotechnology
Background:
- Site-specific recombinases are crucial for animal genome manipulation.
- Limited availability of recombinases with distinct specificities, low toxicity, and high activity hinders research.
- Existing tools require expansion for broader applications in animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel site-specific recombinases for enhanced animal genome engineering.
- To assess the activity, toxicity, and specificity of yeast-derived recombinases in animal systems.
- To expand the toolkit for precise genetic modifications in model organisms.
Main Methods:
- Expression and functional analysis of four yeast-derived recombinases (KD, B2, B3, R) in Drosophila.
- Assessment of recombinase activity and toxicity in vivo.
- Determination of target DNA specificities for KD, B2, B3, and FLP recombinases.
- Evaluation of KD and B3 recombinase activity in mouse models.
Main Results:
- Four yeast recombinases (KD, B2, B3, R) demonstrated high activity and low toxicity in Drosophila.
- KD, B2, B3, and FLP recombinases exhibited distinct DNA target specificities.
- KD and B3 recombinases were found to be active in mice, indicating cross-species applicability.
Conclusions:
- Yeast-derived recombinases offer a valuable addition to the genome engineering toolbox.
- The characterized recombinases provide novel options for precise and specific genetic manipulations in animals.
- These findings facilitate advanced research in developmental biology, disease modeling, and genetic therapies.
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