Core Genetics & Mechanisms

Mosaicism (Genetic Mosaic)

The presence of two or more genetically distinct cell populations within the same organism that originated from a single fertilized egg. In genetic engineering, mosaicism arises when not all cells carry the intended genetic modification.

Overview

Mosaicism refers to the presence of two or more genetically distinct cell populations within the same organism that originated from a single fertilized egg. In genetic engineering, mosaicism arises when not all cells carry the intended genetic modification, resulting in a mixture of modified and unmodified genotypes across tissues or developmental stages.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does mosaicism affect mouse model quality?

Mosaicism can complicate phenotypic interpretation due to variable gene dosage and tissue-specific expression differences. Researchers typically breed mosaic founders to establish germline-transmitted lines with uniform alleles.

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Related Terms

Germline Transmission

The process by which a genetic modification introduced into an organism is passed on to its offspring through reproductive (germ) cells. It confirms that the engineered change is stably integrated into the genome and can be inherited by future generations.

Blastocyst Injection / Chimera Production

The process of introducing genetically modified cells into a developing mouse blastocyst to create a chimera—an organism composed of cells from both the host embryo and the engineered cells.

Genotyping PCR / qPCR

Molecular methods used to detect, confirm, and quantify genetic modifications in engineered mouse models. These assays verify whether the targeted allele, wild-type allele, or transgene is present in an individual animal's DNA.

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Missense and Nonsense Mutations View All Terms Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ)

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