Transgenic animals
Transgenic animals are genetically engineered animals to which genes of interest have been added at the individual level. Transgenic mice, in particular, have been created in large numbers to analyze the functions of genes at the individual level.
We have applied this transgenic technology in conjunction with knockout technology to create animal models of human diseases. We are also conducting joint research with internal and external organizations, for example, to produce transgenic mice with immune system genes.
The most common method of transgenic mouse production is the microinjection of DNA into the pronucleus of a fertilized embryo. In the case of mice, a few to 10 percent of the offspring born after embryo transfers will be transgenic mice carrying the transgene.
We are also developing more efficient methods to produce transgenic animals by using other transgenic systems (such as viral vectors).