WebSite
RIKEN BRC

Experimental Animal Division
Introduction
   The mice are one of the most important model organisms in life sciences. The Experimental Animal Division has been designated as a central core facility for mouse resources in Japan by the National BioResource Project since 2002. With support of scientific community, we have collected over 2,800 strains including unique genetically-engineered strains, ENU mutants, inbred and wild-derived strains developed mainly in Japan. We have established a reliable system for collection, preservation, quality control and distribution of mouse resources. RIKEN BRC is one of the founding members of the Federation of International Mouse Resources (FIMRe), and has participated in the International Mouse Strain Resource (IMSR), a global one-stop shop of mouse strains worldwide. All mice in our facility are cleaned-up to specific pathogen-free state, strictly monitored for their health, and accurately tested on genetic modification and background of the strains. We plan to establish mouse resources of the highest global standards in quality and quantity by 2010. Training courses are also provided to disseminate advanced technologies for best use of mouse resources.
Head Atsushi,YOSHIKI Ph.D. (concurrent)
Head
Atsushi YOSHIKI,
Ph.D.
overview
High-quality unique models In vitro fertilized 2-cell embryos for cryopreservation
Maintenance of SPF mice Liquid nitrogen tanks for long-storage of frozen embryos and sperm

 

Our Activities

  • Collection, maintenance, and distribution of the mouse strains
  • Clean up mouse strains to SPF state
  • Cryopreservation of mouse embryos and sperm
  • Quality control of the mouse resources: microbiological and genetic monitoring
  • Training courses for advanced technologies
  • Participation in the International Mouse Strain Resource(IMSR)
Federation of International Mouse Resources
International Mouse Strain Resource


Development of Technology

   The technology necessary for collection, maintenance, preservation and distribution of the mouse strains is developed as follows:
  1. Development of methods for characterizing mouse strains for morphology, patho-physiology, biochemistry and molecular genetics
  2. Development of novel mouse resources and relevant technologies
  3. Development of rigorous and accurate quality control system
  4. Development of a database of strain characteristics
Training courses for cryopreservation of embryos and sperms
 
Back