Model Systems Component

Tom and Sue Ellison Stem Cell Core

IDD modeling using cell and animal models, including iPSC generation, genome engineering (cells and mice), differentiation protocols for nervous system cell types and organoids, and phenotypic analysis.

Our Model Systems Component provides support for IDD modeling using cell and animal models, including iPSC generation, genome engineering (cells and mice), differentiation protocols for nervous system cell types and organoids, and phenotypic analysis. The MSC works closely with the Ellison Stem Cell Core at the UW Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM) providing comprehensive support for stem cell modeling of human development, function, and disease as well as developing stem cell-based treatments. The Core occupies 3500 sq ft of space located in the University of Washington Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine on the UW South Lake Union campus, and is easily accessible to investigators from the UW main campus and Seattle Children’s Research Institute.

MSC-specific Services

Direct services: Dr. Young (Stem Cell Coordinator) provides direct consultation for iPSC generation, genome engineering, differentiation protocols, phenotyping, functional assays, and statistical considerations. Her lab uses established and experimental protocols for neural and neuronal differentiation from iPSCs, as well as cortical organoid generation. In addition to neuronal methods, Dr. Young also facilitates interactions with groups generating other nervous system cell types, such as astrocytes or microglia. Dr. Millen (Mouse Model Coordinator) leads a mouse developmental biology laboratory and directs the Mouse Genetics Resource at Seattle Children’s Research Institute (SCRI). She provides consultation on mouse models, including IACUC protocols, genome engineering and other genetic manipulations, histopathologic analyses, and behavioral assays. She has deep knowledge of cre-expressing mouse lines for generating conditional mutants, as well as antibodies and other markers for characterizing nervous system development. She coordinates closely with the Animal Behavior and Brain Imaging Cores to ensure that mice are generated in the correct numbers and at the correct location to use these phenotyping resources efficiently. IDDRC Research Affiliates have access to educational activities through the MSC including:

1. Monthly CNS Stem Cell and Organoid Interest Group organized Dr. Young for faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and lab staff interested in CNS stem cell and/or organoid models. The monthly meeting is usually a lab-based presentation on current protocols being used or discussion of a recent paper in the field;
2. Dr. Millen leads an annual introduction to mouse modelling workshop, open to all IDDRC investigators. The workshop familiarizes investigators and trainees with rapidly evolving genome engineering technologies and other techniques to manipulate gene expression and function using in utero electroporation and viral vectors.

Linked Services: When appropriate, Dr. Young provides hands on training for stem cell differentiation and phenotyping in her laboratory, with the Affiliate funding for all consumables and other costs. Dr. Millen heads the Seattle Children’s Mouse Genetics Resource that provides a wide array of services related to mouse modeling. In addition to standard husbandry and genome engineering, the facility specializes in engineering non-standard mouse strains including mice with extant mutant alleles, complementing services provided by the University of Washington Transgenic Program. This resource also provides protocols and training for in utero CNS electroporation and injection of AAV and lentiviral vectors to manipulate gene expression, as well as fee for service IVF, sperm cryopreservation, embryo vitrification and strain reverification.

Coordinated Services: Dr. Young facilitates access to the Ellison Stem Cell Core at the UW ISCRM. The Ellison Core provides fee for service iPSC training, iPSC reprogramming, and gene-editing at competitive rates. Dr. Millen liaises with the UW Transgenic Program to anticipate logistical issues and ensure that Affiliates’ needs are met.

Return to the Genetics Core page.