VeloGene Biotechnology-TurboMice™

The Next Generation Mouse Model Preparation Technology

FAQ

Seek out your answer of your question

Game-changing benefits？

While competitors highlight germline efficiency gains, shorter timelines and enhanced 4Rs animal welfare benefits for their technologies, these are merely incremental improvements over traditional approaches. In sharp contrast, our proprietary technology delivers fully pure, homogeneous lineages—every single cell of the mice is derived exclusively from totipotent ES cells, with guaranteed 100% germline transmission efficiency. To experience these unparalleled benefits firsthand, enquire about your custom mouse model project with us or order embryos for in-house validation at your facility.

Why not CRISPR or ES Targeting microinjection?

While CRISPR and ES Targeting microinjection are valuable genetic engineering techniques, TurboMice™ TCT offers distinct advantages. CRISPR can sometimes lead to off - target effects, where unintended genetic changes occur. TCT, on the other hand, provides a more precise way of generating genetically modified mice, minimizing such risks. ES Targeting microinjection often results in chimera mosaic animal animals, meaning different cells in the animal have different genetic make - ups. This can complicate data interpretation and require a lot of breeding and screening. TCT, in contrast, produces mice that are 100% entirely derived from the genetically modified ES cells, ensuring a high level of genetic consistency. Moreover, TCT's ability to rapidly generate homozygous models without extensive breeding sets it apart from these traditional methods, saving both time and resources in the research process. In summary, MingCeler's TurboMice™ TCT offers a unique combination of precision, speed, and viability in genetic engineering, making it the ideal choice for researchers aiming to advance their studies in genetics, pharmacology, and disease modeling.

Does TurboMice™ Tetraploid Complementation Technology (TCT) produce viable mice?

Yes, TurboMice™ TCT produces highly viable mice. The mice generated through this technology are genetically stable and fully fertile. The genetic stability ensures that the desired genetic modifications are maintained across generations. Their full fertility means that breeding programs can be easily continued. This is crucial as it allows researchers to expand their mouse colonies for long - term research needs. Whether it's for continuous drug testing, long - term disease progression studies, or large - scale genetic experiments, the viability of the TCT - produced mice provides a reliable and sustainable resource.

How fast is TurboMice™ Tetraploid Complementation Technology (TCT)?

TurboMice™ TCT is incredibly fast. Many researchers can obtain homozygous models in just 2 - 4 months. This eliminates the need for the time - consuming initial breeding processes that are typical in other methods. With TCT, you can quickly move from the genetic modification stage to having a ready - to - use homozygous model. This rapid turnaround allows researchers to start their pilot studies sooner. For example, they can begin with male - only pilot studies right after getting the homozygous male mice. Then, they can easily scale up to full - scale experiments using both male and female mice, significantly accelerating the overall research timeline.

What is TurboMice™ Tetraploid Complementation Technology (TCT)?

TurboMice™ Tetraploid Complementation Technology (TCT) is a cutting - edge method in genetic engineering. It combines the power of tetraploid embryo complementation with advanced gene - editing techniques. TCT uses ES cells (embryonic stem cells) which are genetically modified to carry the desired genetic alterations. These modified ES cells are then introduced into tetraploid embryos. The tetraploid cells mainly contribute to the extra - embryonic tissues, while the ES cells develop into the entire mouse embryo. This results in mice that are almost entirely derived from the genetically modified ES cells, ensuring a high degree of genetic uniformity and precision in the final animal model.

How much do mouse model generation projects cost?

•Request a free quote.
•VeloGene specializes in customized mouse model generation services, with project pricing determined by the complexity of the project, materials supplied by the customer, and specified deliverables.
•We provide a complimentary, no-obligation project design and proposal tailored to your specific requirements.​

How long does it take to generate a mouse model?

• VeloGene delivers novel mouse models in an average of 24 weeks.​​​​
• From scratch, we deliver experiment-ready homozygous target mice (F0) in as fast as 12 weeks.​​​​
• Please see our timelines for more information.
VeloGene continuously optimizes project timelines through Lean management principles—stabilizing, standardizing, and refining each process. Our proprietary TurboMice™ technology exemplifies this refinement, enabling rapid generation of genetically engineered mice with industry-leading efficiency while significantly enhancing animal welfare.​

How soon can VeloGene start your project?

•Zero project backlog​​ — VeloGene’s streamlined pipeline enables immediate project initiation.
​​•Execution commences within 24 hours​​ of receiving signed contract and purchase order.

What technology does VeloGene use?

•VeloGene utilizes proprietary ​​MingCeler-Turbomice™ technology​​ for embryonic stem (ES) cell gene targeting, ​​significantly enhancing 3R compliance​​ and ​​accelerating development timelines​​ for genetically engineered mouse models.
•Developed through systematic optimization of ​​tetraploid complementation​​ and ​​stem cell precision editing​​, TurboMice™ enables ​​targeted genomic modifications at virtually any locus​​ within ​​3–5 months​​.

What genetic backgrounds are offered?

VeloGene offers gene targeting on the following backgrounds:
•C57BL/6N
•BALB/c
•ICR
Less common strains as required

Does VeloGene offer partial mouse model projects?

VeloGene recommends end-to-end services from project design to homozygous mouse delivery, ensuring integrated quality control (QC) for ES cell targeting and germline transmission. For clients seeking flexible or partial solutions, we provide comprehensive modular services—including custom ES cell bank establishment—and leverage our TurboMice™ technology for rapid model generation:
• Custom ES cell bank creation (tailored to client-specific genetic backgrounds or targeting needs)
• Gene targeting vector construction
• Edited ES cell derivation (using Mingceler or client-supplied vectors)
• TurboMice™-based mouse line generation (from client/repository ES cells or custom ES banks)
Rapid delivery advantage: Once clients request model production from stored ES cells, we complete the ES-to-mouse process in approximately 45 days.
• Validation and phenotyping services (for all models)

Does VeloGene sell off-the-shelf models?

• QuickMice™ nuNPG Mice
• QuickMice™ hHLA Mice
• QuickMice™ LMNA Mice
• QuickMice™ hPSCK9 Mice
• QuickMice™ hTIGIT Mice
• QuickMice™ hACE2 Mice

What are the commonly used genetic recombination techniques currently available?

Introduction

Currently, there are several commonly used techniques in genetic recombination. Genetic recombination, also known as DNA recombination, is a process that involves the creation of new combinations of genetic material by exchanging DNA segments between different organisms or within the same organism. These techniques have revolutionized the field of genetics and have a wide range of applications in various fields including medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. This essay will explore some of the commonly used genetic recombination techniques.

Recombinant DNA Technology (DNA Cloning)

One of the most well-known and widely used genetic recombination techniques is recombinant DNA technology, also known as DNA cloning. This technique involves the isolation and manipulation of specific DNA fragments from different sources and the subsequent insertion of these fragments into a vector, such as a plasmid or a bacteriophage. The vector, carrying the recombinant DNA, is then introduced into a host organism, usually a bacterium or a yeast, where it is replicated and expressed. Recombinant DNA technology allows researchers to produce large quantities of specific genes or gene products and has been instrumental in the development of many medical and industrial applications, such as the production of insulin and other therapeutic proteins.

Gene Targeting / Gene Knockout

Another commonly used genetic recombination technique is gene targeting or gene knockout. Gene targeting involves the deliberate modification of the genome of an organism to inactivate or "knock out" a specific gene of interest. This technique can be used to study the function of a gene and its role in a biological process or disease. Gene knockout models, such as knockout mice, are widely used in biomedical research to gain insights into gene function and to develop new therapies for genetic disorders.

Site-directed Mutagenesis

Site-directed mutagenesis is another important technique in genetic recombination. This technique allows researchers to introduce specific mutations into a gene's DNA sequence. By altering specific nucleotides, researchers can create changes in amino acid sequences, leading to the production of mutant proteins with altered structures or functions. Site-directed mutagenesis is a powerful tool for studying protein structure and function, as well as for engineering proteins with desired properties.

CRISPR-Cas System

In recent years, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats ( CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins have emerged as a revolutionary genetic recombination technique. The CRISPR- Cas system, originally discovered as an adaptive immune system in bacteria, has been harnessed for genome editing in a wide range of organisms, including plants, animals, and humans. CRISPR- Cas allows for precise and efficient DNA editing, including gene insertion, deletion, and replacement. This technique has revolutionized the field of genetics due to its simplicity, ease of use, and versatility. It has the potential to significantly impact various areas, from human health to agricultural biotechnology. However, its ethical implications and potential misuse also present challenges that need to be addressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, genetic recombination techniques have greatly advanced our understanding of genetics and have had a profound impact on various fields. Recombinant DNA technology, gene targeting, site-directed mutagenesis, and CRISPR- Cas are some of the commonly used techniques in genetic recombination. These techniques have revolutionized the way we study and manipulate genes, leading to numerous applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. As the field continues to progress, it is important to consider the ethical implications and ensure responsible use of these powerful tools.
What are the differences between CKO,KO,KI,point mutation,and humanization?
The field of biotechnology is advancing rapidly, with several emerging techniques that have revolutionized the way we approach the modification of genetic material. Among these techniques, CKO, KO, KI, point mutation, and humanization have gained considerable attention. However, not everyone is familiar with the differences between these concepts. In this blog post, we will explore and clarify what sets each of these techniques apart from the others.

CKO (Conditional Knockout)

Conditional knockout refers to the targeted inactivation of a specific gene in a particular tissue or at a certain developmental stage. This technique allows scientists to investigate the function of a gene in a specific context while preserving its activity in other tissues or stages of development. By selectively deleting or disrupting a gene's function under specific conditions, researchers can gain valuable insights into its role in various biological processes. CKO is a powerful tool for understanding gene function and has proven useful in studying various diseases and developmental disorders.

KO (Knockout)

Knockout, or gene knockout, is a technique used to completely eliminate the function of a specific gene by introducing a mutation that renders it non-functional. This targeting can be achieved through different methods, such as homologous recombination or CRISPR-Cas9 technology. KO models, where a specific gene is disrupted in its entirety, help scientists investigate the effects of gene loss on various biological processes, as well as understand the role of specific genes in the development and progression of diseases.

KI (Knock-In)

Knock-in is a technique used to insert or replace specific genetic sequences into an organism's genome. Unlike KO, where a gene's function is completely eliminated, knock-in allows for the introduction of new genetic information or the replacement of existing genetic sequence(s) to investigate the consequences of altered gene expression. Knock-in models are commonly used to study the effect of specific mutations or genetic variations on biological processes, as well as to develop models for human diseases by incorporating human-specific sequences into animal models.

Point Mutation

Point mutations refer to the alteration of a single nucleotide or a small number of nucleotides within a gene. These mutations can lead to significant changes in the gene's function, potentially affecting various biological processes. Point mutations can occur naturally, as a result of errors during DNA replication or environmental exposures, or they can be intentionally induced using techniques such as site-directed mutagenesis. Researchers harness the power of point mutations to study the effects of specific genetic variations on gene function or to develop disease models that mimic certain human genetic conditions.

Humanization

Humanization involves modifying animal models by incorporating human genetic, cellular, or tissue components to study diseases that primarily affect humans. This technique aims to bridge the gap between preclinical animal models and human diseases, allowing for more accurate predictions of therapeutic outcomes and improving the drug discovery process. Humanization can be achieved through different methods, including xenotransplantation, chimeric animal models, or the introduction of human genetic elements into animal genomes.

Summary

In summary, while all of the techniques mentioned above involve modifying genetic material to study gene function or model human diseases, they each serve distinct purposes. CKO enables gene inactivation under specific conditions, KO eliminates gene function entirely, KI introduces or replaces genetic sequences, point mutation induces nucleotide changes within genes, and humanization integrates human-specific components into animal models. Understanding the differences between these techniques is crucial for researchers and scientists involved in genetic engineering, as each offers unique capabilities and contributes to advancing our knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and disease research.
Difference between CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12
In recent years, the revolutionary gene editing technology known as CRISPR/Cas has garnered significant attention from scientists, researchers, and the general public alike. Among the various CRISPR systems, CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12 have emerged as the most widely used and studied. These systems have revolutionized the field of genetic engineering, offering unprecedented precision and efficiency in manipulating DNA sequences. However, each system possesses its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, which must be carefully considered when selecting the appropriate tool for a specific application. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12, exploring their respective strengths and limitations.

CRISPR/Cas9

CRISPR/Cas9, the first and most well-known CRISPR system, utilizes the Cas9 nuclease enzyme to introduce precise DNA modifications. This system has been extensively used for gene knockout, gene knock-in, and gene regulation studies. One of the key advantages of CRISPR/Cas9 is its versatility, as it can be easily programmed to target specific DNA sequences by designing a complementary guide RNA (gRNA) . This flexibility allows for precise and efficient gene editing in a wide range of organisms, including plants, animals, and even human cells. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9 offers high efficiency in DNA cleavage, resulting in a higher probability of inducing the desired genetic modifications. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the CRISPR/Cas9 system have also contributed to its widespread adoption in research laboratories worldwide. However, despite its numerous advantages, CRISPR/Cas9 does have a few limitations. One major concern is the possibility of off-target effects, where Cas9 may inadvertently cleave DNA sequences that are similar but not identical to the intended target. This off-target activity can lead to unintended genetic alterations and potential safety issues, especially in therapeutic applications.

CRISPR/Cas12

CRISPR/Cas12, also known as CRISPR/Cpf1, is a relatively new addition to the CRISPR toolbox. Compared to CRISPR/Cas9, this system offers several unique advantages. One of the most significant distinctions between the two systems lies in the target recognition mechanism. While CRISPR/Cas9 requires a protospacer adjacent motif ( PAM) sequence to identify its targets, CRISPR/Cas12 recognizes a T-rich protospacer flanking motif ( TTTV) instead. This difference allows for greater flexibility in target selection, expanding the range of DNA sequences that can be edited using CRISPR/Cas12.
Another notable advantage of CRISPR/Cas12 is its intrinsic ability to process its own gRNA. Unlike CRISPR/Cas9, which requires a separate RNA molecule for guiding the Cas9 nuclease, CRISPR/Cas12 can utilize a single RNA molecule for both target recognition and cleavage. This simplification of the CRISPR system offers potential benefits in terms of delivery and efficiency. Additionally, CRISPR/Cas12 has been reported to exhibit lower off-target effects compared to CRISPR/Cas9, making it a safer option for precise gene editing.
However, despite its promising features, CRISPR/Cas12 also has some limitations. One of the major challenges associated with this system is its relatively limited availability and utilization compared to CRISPR/Cas9. CRISPR/Cas12 is a newer discovery, and its applications and potential pitfalls are still being explored. Moreover, the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas12-mediated gene editing is generally lower than that of CRISPR/Cas9, which may limit its application in certain contexts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12 offer unique advantages and disadvantages in the realm of gene editing. CRISPR/Cas9's versatility, high efficiency, and widespread adoption make it a powerful tool for various applications. However, concerns regarding off-target effects remain a significant drawback. On the other hand, CRISPR/Cas12's flexibility in target recognition, potential for reduced off-target effects, and simplified gRNA processing hold great promise. Nevertheless, its limited availability and lower efficiency currently restrict its widespread use.
As the field of genetic engineering continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of each application when selecting the appropriate CRISPR system. Ongoing research and technological advancements will undoubtedly shed more light on the intricacies of CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12, further refining their advantages and mitigating their limitations. Ultimately, these remarkable gene editing tools have the potential to revolutionize medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, offering unprecedented opportunities for scientific discovery and societal progress.
Differences between Bispecific Antibodies and Dual Function Antibodies

Introduction

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have revolutionized the field of biotechnology and healthcare, making significant contributions to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of various diseases. Over the years, researchers and scientists have developed novel antibody formats to enhance their therapeutic potential. Two such formats are bispecific antibodies and dual function antibodies. Although both belong to the same family of antibodies, they exhibit distinct characteristics and functionalities. This essay aims to delineate the key differences between these two antibody types by highlighting their mechanisms of action, applications, and future prospects.

Mechanisms of Action

Bispecific antibodies ( BsAbs) are engineered molecules that possess the ability to bind to two distinct targets simultaneously. These targets can be two different antigens or a combination of antigen and receptor. BsAbs can bridge immune cells with target cells, leading to enhanced immune response or altered signaling pathways. They can also redirect immune effector cells to recognize and target cancer cells, thereby augmenting tumor cell killing.
On the other hand, dual function antibodies, as the name suggests, have two distinct functions incorporated within the same molecule. These antibodies can simultaneously bind to a target antigen, thereby blocking its function, while also engaging another receptor or antigen to elicit an additional effect. For example, a dual function antibody could inhibit the activity of a harmful protein while also triggering an immune response against a specific antigen. This duality allows for broader therapeutic capabilities.

Applications in Healthcare

The contrasting mechanisms of action exhibited by bispecific antibodies and dual function antibodies translate into distinct applications in healthcare.
BsAbs have garnered significant attention as potential cancer therapeutics. By engaging immune cells, such as T cells, natural killer cells, or macrophages, with tumor-specific antigens, BsAbs can facilitate immune-mediated tumor cell destruction. This approach, also known as immunotherapy, has shown promising results in various preclinical and clinical studies, offering a new avenue for cancer treatment.
In contrast, dual function antibodies lend themselves to a wider range of therapeutic possibilities. They can effectively neutralize harmful proteins, such as signaling molecules, enzymes, or growth factors, while simultaneously modulating the immune response against specific antigens. This flexibility allows for the development of targeted therapies for a multitude of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, and infectious diseases.

Future Prospects

Both bispecific antibodies and dual function antibodies represent cutting-edge advancements in the field of biotechnology, with immense potential for future development.
BsAbs hold promise for personalized cancer therapy, as they can be designed to target multiple tumor antigens simultaneously. By doing so, they have the potential to overcome tumor heterogeneity and minimize the development of resistance. Furthermore, recent advancements in the engineering of bispecific antibody platforms, such as the development of bispecific T cell engagers ( BiTEs) and antibody-drug conjugates ( ADCs), have expanded the possibilities for their clinical application.
In the case of dual function antibodies, their adaptability and versatility offer opportunities for targeted therapy in various clinical settings. By capitalizing on the dual functionality, researchers can overcome challenges associated with monotherapies and achieve superior therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the emergence of novel technologies, such as CRISPR- Cas9 gene editing, provides exciting possibilities for the development of tailored dual function antibodies that can precisely target disease-causing molecules.

Conclusion

In summary, bispecific antibodies and dual function antibodies, though belonging to the same family of antibodies, exhibit fundamental differences in their mechanisms of action, applications, and future prospects. Bispecific antibodies hold promise in cancer immunotherapy, while dual function antibodies offer a broader range of therapeutic possibilities in the treatment of various diseases. As research and development in the field of antibody engineering continue to flourish, these novel antibody formats contribute significantly to the advancement of precision medicine and offer hope for improved healthcare outcomes in the future.