Lessons from mouse chimaera experiments with a reiterated transgene marker: revised marker criteria and a review of chimaera markers

摘要: Recent reports of a new generation ubiquitous transgenic chimaera markers prompted us to consider the criteria used evaluate and develop more objective assessment methods. To investigate this experimentally we several series fetal adult chimaeras, carrying an older, multi-copy marker. We two additional independent objective, quantitative for cell selection mixing spatial aspects developmental neutrality. also suggest how analysis could be simplified future use with other markers. As result, recommend five-step procedure investigators based partly on proposed previously but greater emphasis examining neutrality prospective These five steps comprise (1) review published information, (2) evaluation marker detection, (3) genetic crosses check effects viability growth, (4) comparisons chimaeras without (5) both populations labelled. Finally, number different them using extended set criteria. indicate that, although fluorescent are best those currently available fulfil most required marker, further work is determine whether they developmentally neutral.