The construction and phenotypic analysis of genetically engineered mouse (GEM) strains are fundamental and integral for the study of pancreatic cancer, including the analysis of signaling molecules in this pathology, the discovery and analysis of novel genes and their linked networks, and the validation and assessment of novel therapeutic targets and associated molecular biomarkers. The Genetic Engineering Mouse Core (GEMC) of this PDAC POI will provide all the necessary expertise, reagents and services to generate four genetically engineered mouse (GEM) modeling projects per year of grant funding. The GEMC will work closely with POI project leaders, investigators to produce the most advanced cancer relevant GEM strains. Specifically: (A) Transgenics;the GEMC will support all aspects of the construction of transgenic mouse models, including advice, service, technologies and reagents for the optimal design and construction of each specific transgene. (B) Gene Targeting;We will support all aspects of the construction of knockout and knock-in mouse alleles, including provide services, support, advice, technologies and reagents for the optimal design, construction and production of each specific targeting vector and resulting mice. (C) Evaluate and implement new technologies for the construction of genetically engineered mice and derivative cells.
The laboratory mouse has been a central player in aging research. Particularly over the past two decades, numerous laboratories have used the techniques of transgenesis and gene targeting to create novel mouse strains to study pancreatic cancer. The analysis of these strains has led to an improved understanding of the genes involved cancer, cancer related pathological progression, and many other aspects of the oncogenic process that can only be studied in the context of the whole animal. With more genes, more powerful methods of genetic manipulation and greater insight into cancer biology on the molecular and cellular level, the goal to create genetically accurate models of cancer relevant pathologies and processes in the mouse is being realized.
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