BALB/c

BALB/c

BALB/c is a widely used inbred strain of laboratory mouse. It is one of the most commonly used mouse strains in biomedical research due to its unique characteristics and genetic uniformity. This strain is particularly noted for its use in immunology and cancer research.

History

The BALB/c mouse strain was developed in the 1920s by Halsey J. Bagg at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research. The strain was later refined and distributed by the Jackson Laboratory. The name "BALB" is derived from Bagg's initials, and "c" denotes the specific subline.

Characteristics

BALB/c mice are albino, meaning they have a white coat and pink eyes due to a lack of pigmentation. They are known for their:

• Immunological Profile: BALB/c mice have a Th2-biased immune response, making them particularly useful for studying allergic reactions and certain types of infections.
• Cancer Research: They are prone to developing certain types of tumors, which makes them valuable in cancer research.
• Behavioral Traits: Generally docile, BALB/c mice are easy to handle, which is advantageous for laboratory settings.

Applications in Research

BALB/c mice are extensively used in various fields of research:

• Immunology: Due to their predictable immune responses, they are ideal for studying the immune system, vaccine development, and autoimmune diseases.
• Oncology: Their susceptibility to tumors makes them a model organism for cancer research, including studies on tumor growth and metastasis.
• Infectious Diseases: They are used to study the pathogenesis of infectious diseases and the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments.

Genetic Profile

BALB/c mice are inbred, meaning they are genetically identical within the strain. This genetic uniformity is crucial for reducing variability in experimental results. The genome of BALB/c mice has been sequenced, providing valuable insights into their genetic makeup and facilitating genetic manipulation for research purposes.

Maintenance and Breeding

Maintaining a colony of BALB/c mice requires careful attention to their environment and health. They are typically housed in controlled environments with specific pathogen-free conditions to prevent infections that could affect research outcomes.

Also see

• C57BL/6
• Inbred strain
• Laboratory mouse
• Immunology
• Cancer research