Unit 6b - SU Embryonic Stem Cells

Objectives

The major interests of group 6b of the Service Unit Stem cells are the establishment of genetic manipulation techniques in rat embryos and embryo derived pluripotent cells. Furthermore, our research focus lies on the experimental reproduction in rodents.

Research Focus

The generation of knockout rats via homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells (ESC) is the main goal of our research. For this purpose, we have established rat embryonic stem cell lines and are optimising manipulation techniques. At the same time, we are working on gene targeting through microinjection of zinc finger nucleases in rat zygotes and also on the generation of transgenic rats via lentiviral gene transfer by perivitellin space injection. As a new tool for studies on germ cell differentiation and germ cell tumour development, we are cultivating pluripotent rat embryonic germ cells (EGC). In addition, the development and optimisation of cryopreservation techniques of gametes, embryos and ovaries as well as the improvement of experimental reproductive techniques, such as artificial insemination (AI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and ovary transplantation, in laboratory rodents are one of the major interests of our work group.

Collaborations

  • Prof. Dr. Denise Hilfiker-Kleiner, Molecular Cardiology, MHH: Impact of Dnd1 absence on heart function in the rat
  • Prof. Dr. Ulrich Martin, Lebao, MHH: Optimizing of transfection methods in rat embryonic stem cells
  • Dr. Cornelia Rudolph, Cellular and Molecular Pathology, MHH: Karyotyping of rat ES cell
  • Sigma-Aldrich, St.Louis, USA: Inactivation of Rag-1 mediated by zinc-finger nucleases in the rat

Teaching

Lectures, courses, and seminars are given that convey knowledge and expertise in animal experimentation as required by the German Animal Welfare Law (§9 Tierschutzgesetz).
For lectures and courses see:
http://www.mh-hannover.de/2376.html?&MP=219-1882

Service

  • cryo preservation of preimplantation embryos, oocytes, ovaries, and sperm of laboratory rodents
  • in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in laboratory rodents (assisted reproduction and re-derivation)
  • providing mice of various strains for teratoma assays and feeder cell production
  • performing pluripotency assays in NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/JZtm mice

Staff

Prof. Dr. Hans-Jürgen Hedrich Hedrich.Hans (at) mh-hannover.de
Dr. Martina Dorsch Dorsch.Martina (at) mh-hannover.de
Dr. Nils-Holger Zschemisch Zschemisch.Nils-Holger (at) mh-hannover.de
Emily Northrup Northrup.Emily (at) mh-hannover.de
Regina Eisenblätter reprolabor.ZTL (at) mh-hannover.de
Isabell Wittur reprolabor.ZTL (at) mh-hannover.de
Cindy Elfers reprolabor.ZTL (at) mh-hannover.de