An efficient method for producing alpha(1,3)-galactosyltransferase gene knockout pigs

Cloning Stem Cells. 2004;6(4):327-31. doi: 10.1089/clo.2004.6.327.

Abstract

We have reported relatively efficient methods for somatic cell nuclear transfer and for knocking out the alpha(1,3)-galactosyltransferase (alpha1,3-GT) gene in porcine fetal fibroblasts using a nonisogenic promoterless construct approach. Here we report the production of alpha1,3-GT gene knockout pigs using these procedures. Seven alpha1,3-GT gene knockout cell clones were identified by long-range PCR from 108 neomycin resistant (neo(R)) colonies, giving a 6.5% targeting efficiency. Three cell clones were used for nuclear transfer. Nuclear transfer was performed using a fusion before activation protocol using in vitro-matured adult oocytes. Between 51 and 110 fused couplets were transferred to 10 recipients synchronized 1 day behind the embryos. Parturition was induced on day 115, and piglets were delivered by caesarean section. Four recipients gave birth to a total of 18 live piglets. All pigs were female, and all three clones resulted in the birth of live pigs. alpha1,3-GT gene knockout pigs were identified by long-range PCR and confirmed by Southern blot analysis. The efficiency (embryos transferred/piglets born) of our cloning protocol was 1.9% for all transfers and 4.6% for animals that gave birth.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Genetically Modified / genetics
  • Female
  • Fibroblasts*
  • Galactosyltransferases / genetics*
  • Gene Deletion*
  • Nuclear Transfer Techniques*
  • Oocytes*
  • Pregnancy
  • Swine / genetics*

Substances

  • Galactosyltransferases