Conditional mouse model for the BARD1 gene

This technology is a mouse model harboring a conditional-null allele of the Bard1 gene (Bard1co).

Unmet Need: An in vivo model to study the BARD1 gene

BRCA1-Associated Ring Domain 1 (BARD1) is a tumor suppressor gene that works in conjunction with BRCA1 to repair damaged DNA and preserve genome stability. Mutations in BARD1 are associated with an increased risk for breast and ovarian cancers, however the mechanism and cancer risk are not well understood. Animal models are necessary to better understand the role of BARD1, and develop targeted treatments for these disorders. However, there are currently no animal models to study mutations or knockout of BARD1 in vivo.

The Technology: Conditional mouse model to study the BARD1 gene

This is a mouse model that allows for tissue-specific conditional knockout of the BARD1 gene. Cre-mediated recombination of two loxP sites inserted around an exon results in deletion of said exon, preventing expression of BARD1 protein, and rendering the allele functionally null. As such, his model can be used to investigate the role and mechanism of BARD1 in increasing cancer risk. It can also be used to study the role of BARD1 in relation to BRCA1-related cancers.

Applications:

  • Diagnostic assays for breast and ovarian cancer
  • Drug screening for breast and ovarian cancer
  • Research tool for studying the role of Bard1 in vivo
  • Research platform for studying the effect of Bard1 on cancer risk

Advantages:

  • Can better replicate human diseases associated with Bard1
  • Creates consistent and reproducible genetic knockouts
  • Knocks out Bard1 only in specific tissues of interest when combined with a tissue specific Cre recombinase

Lead Inventor:

Richard Baer, Ph.D.

Related Publications:

*Billing D, Horiguchi M, Wu-Baer F, Taglialatela A, Leuzzi G, Nanez SA, Jiang W, Zha S, Szabolcs M, Lin CS, Ciccia A, Baer R. “The BRCT Domains of the BRCA1 and BARD1 Tumor Suppressors Differentially Regulate Homology-Directed Repair and Stalled Fork Protection” Mol Cell. 2018 Oct 4; 72(1): 127-139.

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