Biological Services- Models Cryopreservation of MHRA Breeding Stock

Tenders are invited from establishments who have the capabilities to take on all services related to transgenic colony management. At the MHRA, the Biological Services facility houses two transgenic mouse breeding colonies. These colonies have been specifically bred to support the Poliomyelitis test work implemented by the Science, Research & Innovation Group. In-bred transgenic mice with the Human Polio receptor gene provides a practical alternative to the use of non-human primates. These lines are used to assess the neurovirulence of polioviruses and immunogenicity/ protection of vaccines and hence play a key role in the global polio activities of the Agency. Both colonies require refresh, as genetic drift has been observed due to multiple unexpected phenotypic changes. We are therefore seeking assistance in the maintenance and refresh of colonies, possibly looking to utilise already frozen stocks of embryos/ sperm.