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Gene Targeting Technologies

Gene Targeting Technologies

Since 1998, ingenious targeting laboratory has refined gene targeting technologies through more than 2,500 custom projects. Our methodology combines proven ES cell gene targeting with sophisticated allele design strategies to deliver mouse models with verified genetic modifications and predictable performance.

Understanding these technologies helps researchers design optimal targeting strategies and interpret model capabilities. ingenious targeting laboratory's scientific consultants guide project design from initial concept through final allele verification.

2,500+
Projects Completed
800+
Publications
26+
Years Experience
100%
Success Rate

Core Technologies

Homologous Recombination

Homologous recombination enables precise genetic modification by exchanging genomic sequences between the targeting vector and chromosomal DNA.

  • Targeted modifications occur at the intended locus
  • Surrounding genomic architecture remains intact
  • Single copy integration at native chromosomal position
  • Predictable expression under endogenous regulatory control
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Conditional Systems

Cre Lox System

The Cre lox recombination system enables conditional gene modification by placing critical exons between LoxP recognition sites. Cre recombinase expression catalyzes recombination between LoxP sites to delete the flanked sequence.

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FLP FRT System

The FLP FRT system provides an orthogonal recombination approach that can work independently or in combination with Cre lox for selection cassette removal, sequential recombination, and dual recombinase strategies.

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Inducible Systems

Inducible gene expression systems provide temporal control over genetic modifications. Tamoxifen inducible CreERT2 systems enable adult onset gene deletion or activation.

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Derivative Allele System

The knockout first strategy produces a tm1a allele that serves as the foundation for multiple model types from a single targeting event.

tm1a Allele (knockout first)

Gene function disrupted by splice acceptor. LacZ reporter indicates endogenous expression pattern.

tm1b Allele (complete null)

Cre mediated deletion removes critical exon and neomycin cassette. Clean null allele with persistent reporter expression.

tm1c Allele (conditional ready)

FLP mediated deletion removes gene trap cassette, restoring gene function. Critical exon remains flanked by LoxP sites.

tm1d Allele (conditional null)

Cre mediated deletion of the tm1c allele removes the critical exon, creating tissue specific or temporally controlled null allele.

What Researchers Say

We are very happy with this mouse line and we're not done yet. There's still plenty to do. The versatility of the F.A.S.T.™ approach is really unparalleled. There are so many possibilities to use the cassette that one paper does not showcase it all. Also, the addition of N-terminal GFP has helped quite a bit to understand gene expression patterns.

Frank Bosmans, PhD

Ghent University, Belgium

Start Your Project

Our scientific consultants can help you select the optimal technology approach for your research goals. From allele design through study ready animals, ingenious targeting laboratory provides comprehensive technical expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Cre lox system places critical exons between LoxP recognition sites. Cre recombinase expression, driven by tissue specific or inducible promoters, catalyzes recombination between LoxP sites to delete the flanked sequence. This enables tissue specific or temporal control of gene deletion, avoiding developmental lethality and modeling pharmacological intervention.

FLP FRT is primarily used for removal of FRT flanked selection cassettes from knockout first alleles, enabling generation of clean conditional alleles. Cre lox is used for conditional gene deletion. Both can be combined in dual recombinase strategies for more sophisticated allele designs requiring independent control of multiple modifications.

Derivative alleles are alternative forms of a targeted allele created through recombinase mediated processing. For example, knockout first (tm1a) alleles can be processed into conditional ready (tm1c) alleles via FLP mediated cassette removal, then into conditional knockout (tm1d) alleles via Cre mediated exon deletion. This provides flexibility from a single targeting event.