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Superovulation strategies for 6 commonly used mouse strains
Charlie Luo1, Juliana Zuñiga, Earnessa Edison
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetically Engineered Mouse Facility, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
Summary
Optimizing superovulation protocols for common mouse strains involves tailoring hormone dosages and timing based on specific mouse strain and weight. This ensures maximal oocyte yield for genetic engineering applications.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Animal Models
- Genetic Engineering
Background:
- Superovulation is crucial for generating genetically engineered mouse models.
- Standard protocols may not be optimal across diverse mouse strains and weights.
- Optimized protocols are needed to maximize oocyte retrieval.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine optimal superovulation protocols for six common mouse strains.
- To evaluate the impact of weight ranges and hormone dosages on oocyte yield.
- To compare single versus double PMSG (pregnant mare serum gonadotropin) injections.
Main Methods:
- Six mouse strains (C57BL/6NHsd, B6(Cg)-Tyr(c-2J)/J, B6D2F1/Hsd, FVB/NHsd, BALB/cAnNCr, Crl:CD1(ICR)) were grouped by weight.
- Mice received initial treatments of 5 IU PMSG and 5 IU HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin).
- Subsequent experiments tested varying PMSG dosages (2.5 IU vs. 5 IU) and single vs. double injections.
Main Results:
- Optimal pre-treatment weights varied significantly by strain (e.g., ≤14.2g for C57BL/6NHsd, ≥23.5g for Crl:CD1(ICR)).
- FVB, B6D2F1, BALB/c, and CD1 mice yielded most oocytes with a single 5 IU PMSG/5 IU HCG dose.
- B6(Cg)-Tyr(c-2J)/J responded better to 2.5 IU PMSG, while C57BL/6 showed improved yield with two 5 IU PMSG doses.
Conclusions:
- Superovulation efficiency is highly dependent on mouse strain, weight, and hormone administration strategy.
- Tailored protocols using specific PMSG dosages and injection timing are essential for maximizing oocyte production.
- Strain-specific optimization is key for successful genetic engineering using mouse models.
