Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee Policy

Collection of Samples for Genomic Analysis

Purpose

In order to comply with NIH-PHS government regulations governing the use of vertebrate animals and to ensure the well-being of animals at UConn Health, the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee has implemented a policy regarding the collection of samples for genomic analysis from genetically engineered mice.

Action

Procedure for Mice Between 10 to 21 Days of Age

• The tail biopsy procedure should be described in the approved animal care and use protocol.
• Mice should be between 10 and 21 days old. At this age, the tail is still soft and the tail vertebrae have not yet calcified. Prompt analysis allows mice to be genotyped prior to weaning.
• Local anesthetics are recommended, but not required. The tip of the tail may numbed with ice or immersed in ice-cold isopropyl alcohol for 10 seconds.
• The size of the biopsy should not exceed 5 mm of tissue.
• The tail biopsy procedure must be performed using clean gloves and a sterile sharp scalpel, sharp scissors, or razor blade. Tail skin should be disinfected with alcohol prior to incising the tip. Make one clean cut through the tail. Do not use iodine solutions because they may interfere with DNA analysis.
• Following the biopsy procedure, bleeding should be controlled using local pressure. After releasing the mouse back into the cage, it should be observed to make certain that the bleeding has stopped. The presence of blood in the cage may cause aggression between cage mates. If bleeding occurs, it may be necessary to cauterize the tip of the tail with silver nitrate. Please consult the Attending Veterinarian for advice when using cauterizing agents, as they may be toxic if they are ingested by the mouse.

Procedure for Mice Older than 21 Days of Age

• The procedure should be described in the approved animal care and use protocol. The rationale for testing older mice should be explained.
• The use of a general or local anesthetic is suggested, but not required as long as the length of the biopsy does not exceed 5mm. Please consult the surgery guidelines for general anesthetic details. The tip of the tail may be numbed with ice or immersed in ice-cold isopropyl alcohol for 10 seconds.
• Steps 4-6 should be followed as described above. Plastic restrainers are useful to hold the mouse.
• Removal of more than 5 mm of tail in mature rodents is only allowed in exceptional cases, and it must be approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. If repeat sampling is necessary, anesthesia must be used and only small amounts of tissue may be taken.

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References

Blickman, A. and C. Vogelweid. ISUM IACUC Guidelines, February, 2003.

The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. National Research Council, 1996.