Scientific facilities
Mouse gene editing
The Mouse gene editing facility is shared between the CBM and the CNB (Centro Nacional de Biotecnología), and our mission is to provide users with the genetically altered mouse models they require for their studies.
The facility provides support to internal and external CSIC users for the design and generation of new animal models by different technologies and advises on different aspects of colony management.
The facility also designs guides and edits cell lines by electroporation.
Our services include the following:
Additive transgenesis
Overexpression models obtained by pronuclear microinjection of transgenes provided by the requesting users. The service provides 2-3 animals carrying the construct, but does not guarantee transmission to offspring or expression of the transgene. C57BL/6J or B6CBAF1 hybrid background is used. Other genetic backgrounds are possible upon request.
Additive transgenesis
Overexpression models obtained by pronuclear microinjection of transgenes provided by the requesting users. The service provides 2-3 animals carrying the construct, but does not guarantee transmission to offspring or expression of the transgene. C57BL/6J or B6CBAF1 hybrid background is used. Other genetic backgrounds are possible upon request.
KO and KI models by ES cell-based targeted mutagenesis
The service performs the search for vectors and ES lines available in international repositories for the different mouse genes. In case of vectors, it can perform electroporation in ES lines available to the service (G4 or R1). In case of cells, the service receives the cells, expands and genotypes them before injecting them into 8-cell stage mouse embryos. The service provides 2-3 high contribution chimeras, although it does not guarantee germline transmission.
Gene editing (KO, KI and conditional models)
In this type of models the support of the service covers from the design of guides to the generation of the animals carrying the desired modification. KO models are generated by electroporation, as are point mutations and small insertions. In case of larger inserts or for the generation of conditional animals, 1-cell phase microinjection is used. The service performs founder identification.
Generation of new mouse ES cell lines
These are obtained from embryos of genetically altered lines provided by the applicant, by in vitro culture under conditions that maintain pluripotency. The service provides 1-2 vials of frozen cells once generated and if required, specific culture medium.
Support in the management of GA mouse colonies
The performance of this service covers from the location of lines in the different international repositories, to the design of primers for genotyping, long PCR and Sanger sequencing or crossbreeding schemes for the generation of the desired genotype with the smallest possible number of animals, also advising on the necessary controls for the experiments.
Training
The facility advises on the process of obtaining authorization for the creation of genetically altered lines. It also organizes and participates in different courses related to the management of genetically altered models and provides practical training in the procurement, culture and transfer of embryos.
Staff

Verónica Domínguez Plaza
Lab.: CNB Servicio mixto con CBM. Ext.: 4401
vdominguez(at)cbm.csic.es