Xenopus Mutant Resource

The Xenopus Mutant Resource (XMR) generates and characterizes new Xenopus mutants in key genes related to human disease and is a centralized research hub for scientists to come and work on many different mutants, as well as obtain training in working in Xenopus tropicalis. This is especially critical since most Xenopus researchers use X. laevis as their main model and do not have the resources or infrastructure for housing and breeding X. tropicalis, which are better suited for genetic studies. Furthermore, this resource will provide non-Xenopus researchers with the opportunity to utilize Xenopus in their studies; indeed, we have already begun making mutants for non-Xenopus researchers.

Researchers can contact the XMR and request a mutant be made in a specific gene. They will work closely with XMR staff to identify where to target in the specific gene, design sgRNA, inject embryos and ascertain if an out of frame mutation has been produced. These embryos are then raised to adulthood and outcrossed to wild type. The F1 embryos are genotyped to confirm germline transmission of mutation. Once these F1 animals reach sexual maturity they are then intercrossed to generate null offspring. Staff at the XMR can then fix at a specific stage and genotype them and send samples to the researcher for analysis.

Researchers can also visit the XMR and work on their mutant. We provide everything needed to host visiting scientists. Housing is also provided in one of the MBL cottages; this is a 2-bedroom cottage with 4 beds and can accommodate multiple people. Individuals can stay for 1-4 weeks.