Gene trap mutagenesis

Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2007:(178):129-47. doi: 10.1007/978-3-540-35109-2_6.

Abstract

Our ability to genetically manipulate the mouse has had a great impact on medical research over the last few decades. Mouse genetics has developed into a powerful tool for dissecting the genetic causes of human disease and identifying potential targets for pharmaceutical intervention. With the recent sequencing of the human and mouse genomes, a large number of novel genes have been identified whose function in normal and disease physiology remains largely unknown. Government-sponsored multinational efforts are underway to analyze the function of all mouse genes through mutagenesis and phenotyping, making the mouse the interpreter of the human genome. A number of technologies are available for the generation of mutant mice, including gene targeting, gene trapping and transposon, chemical or radiation-induced mutagenesis. In this chapter, we review the current status of gene trapping technology, including its applicability to conditional mutagenesis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Animals
  • Gene Targeting / methods*
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Mutagenesis / genetics*
  • Mutation / genetics