Cryopreservation of Laboratory Mice: Ensuring Biomedical Research Continuity

Cryopreservation of laboratory mice, commonly referred to as mouse embryo cryopreservation and mouse sperm freezing, is a vital technique for managing and preserving valuable genetic resources in biomedical research. As the primary animal model for studying human diseases, maintaining the genetic integrity of thousands of unique transgenic mouse strains and knockout mouse models is both a logistical and financial challenge for research institutions worldwide. Cryopreservation services offer a reliable, space-efficient, and cost-effective solution.

The core process involves carefully freezing mouse embryos or mouse sperm in liquid nitrogen at -196°C, a state where all biological activity ceases. For embryos, this typically uses a method called vitrification, a rapid freezing technique that prevents damaging ice crystal formation. Thawed embryos can be implanted into surrogate females to regenerate a live mouse colony. Similarly, frozen mouse sperm can be used with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to revive a strain.

This method is crucial for genome research projects like the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC), which aims to characterize the function of every mouse gene. Cryopreserved mouse strains act as a genetic backup, safeguarding decades of research against loss from disease, breeding failures, or natural disasters. Furthermore, it facilitates the shipping of mouse strains globally as frozen samples instead of live animals, reducing stress, cost, and biosecurity risks.

For biobanks and research facilities, implementing a robust cryopreservation strategy is essential for reproductive biotechnology and genetic resource management. Key keywords for this field include:

• cryopreservation protocol
• mouse strain preservation
• assisted reproduction in mice
• germplasm cryobanking
• genetic archiving

Utilizing these services ensures the long-term preservation of mouse models, securing the future of drug discovery, cancer research, and genetics studies that depend on these irreplaceable biological resources.