Envigo announces that it will launch the "R2G2" mouse at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) annual meeting in Washington DC, April 1-5, 2017. The R2G2, a Rag2/IL2RG double knockout model, was created by backcrossing the common gamma chain gene mutation (IL2RG) on to a unique C57BL/6 and 129 mixed background mouse with a mutation in the recombination activating gene 2 (Rag2). The R2G2 mouse addresses common challenges that researchers experience with current models used in oncology, immuno-oncology and infectious disease research.

The R2G2 provides distinct advantages over other triple immunodeficient models with the scid mutation. One key benefit that makes it ideal for oncology research is the model’s reduced radiosensitivity, meaning it has the ability to tolerate the effects of a wider range of radiation dosages. This helps researchers more closely simulate the treatment environments of cancer therapies, where patients receive combinations of chemo/immunotherapy and radiation. The model is highly immunodeficient due to the lack of functional T, B, and NK cells resulting from the Rag2 and IL2rg gene disruptions. Moreover, the R2G2 also brings the benefit of reduced "leakiness" when compared to several other models with the scid mutations – whose immune systems regenerate as they age, forming new T cells, which can confound experiments.

Mike Caulfield, president of contract research services and research model services in North America at Envigo, commented: "R2G2 is a genetically engineered model (GEM) and its launch forms part of Envigo’s wider commitment to expand the number of GEMs in our portfolio, and provide researchers with new models that address limitations they encounter with other mice currently used for research in oncology and infectious disease. Already, radiosensitivity testing has proven this model is less sensitive and flow cytometry has demonstrated that the immune profile is similar to the NSG model. In short, R2G2 provides a translational research approach that will help customers to more accurately predict outcomes."

In addition to the experiments already completed, Envigo is currently validating the model’s potential humanization benefits, the outcome of which will be announced in early Summer. Data that Envigo has compiled on the R2G2 is outlined in a white paper being distributed at AACR and via Envigo’s website. Envigo will continue to collect data on this model and wishes to collaborate with researchers who are willing to provide insights about the R2G2 mouse based on its use in studies.