Advantages of Congenic Strains

Genetically defined rodent strains with stable, identifiable phenotypes are essential to biomedical research. However, complex gene interactions can result in genetic variability in rodent strains, possibly affecting the observed phenotype. Congenic strains minimize genetic variability in experiments and reveal insights into the contribution of background strains on model phenotypes. Developed through selection and backcrossing, these strains require periodic genetic monitoring to maintain purity before research or breeding.

Background strain characterization detects genetic variation which can arise in closed colonies or through misbreeding. Research models are often exchanged among many institutions, making their precise breeding history difficult to track. No matter how well managed colonies are, routine background confirmation is essential. Protect your research and budget by conducting studies with genetically verified models that meet your testing requirements.


Does Your Research Require the Transfer of Genetic Backgrounds?

We can deliver your desired genome through our congenicity testing and identifying individuals containing more of the recipient genome from each generation. Whereas with traditional/random backcrossing methods, it takes 10 generations (~2.5 years) to produce a congenic strain.

 

Application Highlights for Speed Congenics/MAX-BAX Program

Single-Round
•  Verify inbred and outbred backgrounds
•  Detect genetic contamination
•  Assess genetic diversity in outbred models
•  Cell line characterization
•  Linkage analysis
•  Mutation mapping
•  Map transgene insertion
•  Recombination event detection		Multiple-Round
•  Desired genotype in fewer than five generations
•  Custom-designed mouse 384 SNP panel for all donor and recipient strains
•  Genome-wide microsatellite panels (mice & rats)
•  All autosomes and X chromosome covered in all panels
•  Y-chromosome markers tested if necessary
•  Learn more about our housing and breeding services


Which SNP-Panel is Appropriate for Your Research?

 
Mouse 384 SNP Panel (MAX-BAX®) Complete Background Analysis
This panel determines current in-bred mouse background strain percentage. With four consecutive rounds of backcross breeding and testing, your colony will be congenic.

 
Mouse B6 128 SNP Panel for Congenic C57BL/6 Mice
Used only on congenic C57s (B6) mice, this panel determines the percentage of an animals commercial origin.

 
Rat 240 SNP Panel Complete Background Analysis 
This panel determines current in-bred rat background strain percentage. With four consecutive rounds of backcross breeding and testing, your colony will be congenic.

 
Mouse or Rat 32 SNP QC Panel for Line Contamination
This SNP panel for mice or rats determines if there has been genetic drift or strain contamination from where your research started.


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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Genetic Research Services