The Transgenic and Cryopreservation Unit

עברית

The Transgenic and Cryopreservation Unit at Bar-Ilan University specializes in generating transgenic mice and advanced genome editing using cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR. Our unit collaborates with researchers across various fields, offering a comprehensive range of services in genomic editing—from project planning to the production of genetically tailored offspring.

Led by Dr. Shelly Ziv-Lherman, the unit is dedicated to supporting research endeavors with precision and expertise.

20240825123738.472.JPG

Services Provided

Sperm Cryopreservation

  • Preservation of mice lines by sperm freezing and for live animal reduction.
  • Import of frozen sperm from international or other academic sources for the creation of clean new mouse strains.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

  • Generation of mouse lines from cryopreserved strains via in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Mice rederivation services

  • Mice rederivation through cesarean section and foster mother transfer, ensuring a healthy and uncontaminated lineage.

Genome Editing via CRISPR

  • Creating mutations through indels and generating genomic deletions.
  • Insertion of desired sequences (up to 200 base pairs), such as tags or amino acid changes.
  • Development of Founder mice with precise genetic modifications.

Insertion of Large Genomic Fragments

  • Utilizing AAV technology to insert fragments up to 4.4Kb, expanding the possibilities of genetic engineering.

​​​​Embryo Transfer

  • Embryo transfer into recipient females to produce a genetically engineered mice offspring.

 

Consultation and Guidance 

The unit offers personalized consultation on genome editing strategies, guide design, and HDR oligo planning under the guidance of Prof. Nitzan Gonen, an expert in genomic technologies, and Dr. Shelly Ziv-Lherman. Our goal is to provide tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of each research project.

The unit has successfully spearheaded numerous projects involving CRISPR and frozen sperm importation, contributing significantly to research across multiple laboratories:

Genome Editing and Mouse Models (CRISPR, AAV)

  • Generation of a precisely genome-edited mouse model that led to significant advances in the study of aging processes — Lab of Prof. Haim Cohen
  • Design of a targeted mouse model in the LMNA gene to study nuclear envelope protein function and its link to human disease — Lab of Prof. Michael Blank
  • Design of a targeted mouse model in the Pex26 gene to investigate peroxisomal function and the impact of human genetic variants — Lab of Dr. Einat Zeltsman
  • Design of a genomic deletion of a regulatory element in the Twist1 locus to study gene expression control during embryonic development — Lab of Prof. Ramon Birnbaum
  • Introduction of large genetic segments using AAV and establishment of new mouse lines — Lab of Prof. Nitzan Gonen

Mouse Model Generation (IVF)

  • Generation of mouse models for immunological research — Lab of Dr. Shay Bel

Sperm Cryopreservation and Mouse Line Establishment

  • Import of frozen sperm, sperm cryopreservation, and establishment of mouse lines from frozen sperm to generate new lines for reproductive research — Lab of Prof. Nitzan Gonen

Mouse Line Revival and Stabilization

  • Revival of mouse lines and maintenance of pathogen-free lines for neurodegenerative disease research — Lab of Prof. Eitan Okun

 

Our Team

  • Unit Head: Dr. Shelly Ziv-Lherman, responsible for overseeing all unit activities and project implementation.
  • Transgenic Specialist: Dr. Tzofnat Bareli, leads and carries out projects within the unit, develops workflows and operational infrastructure, and specializes in genome editing using CRISPR-based approaches.
  • Veterinary Services and Animal Facility Management: Dr. Simon Tinman, ensuring the welfare of animals and compliance with ethical standards.
  • Genome Editing Consultant: Prof. Nitzan Gonen, providing expert advice on all aspects of genome editing.

 

Contact Us

 For project planning and professional consultation, please reach out to:

Dr. Shelly Ziv-Lherman (Project Execution)
Tel: 972-3-5317971 l shelly.ziv-lherman@biu.ac.il 

Dr. Tzofnat Bareli  (Transgenic Specialist)
Tel: 972-3-7384094 l tzofnat.bareli@biu.ac.il

Maor Lubman (Transgenic Specialist)
Tel: 972-3-7384215 l maor.lubman@biu.ac.il

Prof. Nitzan Gonen (an expert in genomic technologies)
Tel: 972-3-5317246 l Nitzan.Gonen@biu.ac.il 

Dr. Shimon Tinman (Animal Facility Management)
Tel: 972-3-5318748 l shimon.tinman@biu.ac.il