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 Dr. Nitzan Gonen, an expert in genomic technologies.
Our goal is to provide tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of each research project.

Some examples of Successful Projects

Our unit has successfully completed numerous CRISPR projects and sperm import procedures, contributing significantly to the research outcomes of several laboratories:

  • CRISPR Projects for Prof. Haim Cohen's lab: Precision genome editing resulting in significant advancements in aging research.
  • IVF Projects for Dr. Shay Bel's lab: Successful creation of specific mouse models for immunological studies.
  • Many CRISPR projects, Introduction of large fragments with AAV, Frozen Sperm Import, Sperm freezing, and Creation of strains with frozen sperm for Dr. Nitzan Gonen's lab: Establishing new mouse strains critical for reproductive biology research.
  • Mice rederivation for Prof. Eitan Okun's lab: Ensuring pathogen-free mouse strains for neurodegenerative disease research.

 

Our Team

  • Unit Head: Dr. Shelly Ziv-Lherman, responsible for overseeing all unit activities and project implementation.
  • Veterinary Services and Animal Facility Management: Dr. Simon Tinman, ensuring the welfare of animals and compliance with ethical standards.
  • Genome Editing Consultant: Dr. Nitzan Gonen, providing expert advice on all aspects of genome editing.

 

Contact Us

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