International Mammalian Genome Society

The 15th International Mouse Genome Conference (2001)

Table of Contents * Complex Genetics * Developmental Genetics * Gene Annotation * Gene Discovery * Genome Sequencing * Functional Genomics * Mutagenesis * Presentations * Verne Chapman Memorial Lecture

Dr Lisa Tarantino
GNF
3115 Merryfield Row
San Diego
CA 92121
USA

Co-Authors: Fletcher CF, Kay S
Institutions: Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation

Random mutagenesis as a means of identifying the function of genes has been used successfully in a variety of model organisms.  Until recent years, however, the use of mutagenesis had focussed on the identification of single-gene mutations that produced visible or developmental phenotypes.  The identification of the first behavioral phenotype in a mutagenesis screen and subsequent cloning of the gene, Clock, in 1994, reawakened the mouse genetics field to the power of mutagenesis in the identification of not only visible phenotypes, but more complex behavioral phenotypes.  In addition, the completion of the sequence of both the mouse and human genomes has further prompted the need for functional analysis of genes.

We are conducting a large-scale, recessive mutagenesis screen with a broad scientific focus.  We have developed high-throughput assays for a number of behavioral phenotypes including prepulse inhibition, home cage activity monitoring, fear conditioning, rest/activity patterns and pain sensitivity.  In addition, we are also conducting screens in the areas of immunology and blood chemistry.

We will present data from over 4,000 mutagenized mice representing over 140 G3 pedigrees and discuss heritable mutants currently being characterized.