Many researchers use transgenic animals to study the genetic bases of human and animal diseases and to design and test possible treatments. Since each genetically engineered animal must be tested to determine if DNA transfer was successful, Pinkert says surgical biopsies are performed on hundreds of thousands of animals each year. Pinkert and his colleagues developed their PCR analysis in the summer of 1996. This procedure improves conditions for the animals. The PCR analysis is as effective as biopsy on older mice, but does require a two-step process to detect transgene incorporation in younger mice, Pinkert says.
Efforts are underway to improve the effectiveness of the test in younger mice.
Pinkert and colleagues published their findings in the journal Nature Biotechnology in September 1996. Test A cell culture test for photoxicity has been validated successfully in international study sponsored by the European Union and the European Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Perfumery Association. Edited by Marc Bekoff, of the University of Colorado, this one-volume reference work will provide essays by recognized authorities in the field, addressing many issues of animal rights and animal welfare. The foreword was written by Jane Goodall. The first issue was just published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc., and Vol. 1, No.