Microbiota Characterization Now Offered
The RRRC now offers a full line of NGS-related services including fecal DNA extraction, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and informatics analysis to researchers using rat models.  For more information, please see here or contact www.rrrc.us.

Need a New Rat Model?
Need a new rat model?  The RRRC in conjunction with the MU Animal Modeling Core (AMC) can assist with the generation of transgenic rats, create knock-out and knock-in rats using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and genetically manipulate rat embryonic stem cells to make chimeric animals.  Contact us to discuss your rat model needs and how we can help.

RRRC at American Society of Human Genetics
Stop by Booth 949 (Research Resources in Metagenomics and Animal Models) in the Exhibitor Hall at ASHG 2017 in Orlando, FL on Oct 18-20 to discuss how we can help facilitate your research.  

Animal Characterization at Discovery Ridge
Discover what our team is doing related to metagenomics and the animal resource centers at MU including the RRRC, the MU MMRRC, the NSRRC and the MU Animal Modeling Core and the MU Metagenomics Center.
https://vimeo.com/239454305

Rat Genome and Model Resources
Review of available rat resources.  Shimoyama, M, Smith, JR, Bryda, E, Kuramoto, T, Saba, L, Dwinell, M. (2017) Rat Genome and Model Resources. ILAR J 58 (1):42-58.

Precision Mouse Modeling: Translation to Human Disease Symposium

NIDA Center for Genetic Studies of Drug Abuse in Outbred Rats
The NIDA Center for Genetic Studies of Drug Abuse in Outbred Rats (P50DA037844) is calling for applications for Pilot Studies in HS Outbred Rats Supporting Drug Abuse Research.

Remembering Dr. Mary Shimoyama
The faculty and staff of the Rat Genome Database are deeply grieved to announce the recent passing of Dr. Mary Shimoyama, principal investigator of RGD.

COVID-19-related Disruptions

Due to the current situation with COVID-19, we are operating with reduced staffing and there may be delays in responding to emails and phone calls at this time.  In addition, because of institutional restrictions and uncertainty with courier services and transportation, the RRRC is currently shipping and receiving live animals on a case-by-case basis.  For new requests, please contact us to discuss your needs.  For ongoing orders, we will continue to communicate frequently to keep you apprised of the status of your order.  Thank you for understanding.

RRRC Fully Operational
The RRRC is fully operational at this time and we are excited to be able to assist researchers with all their rat-related needs. 

Rats on the rise
Rats on the rise.  Ellen P. Neff (Lab Animal, 2021). After a genetic revolution in the 80s, mice overtook rats as the laboratory animal of choice for many researchers. But in recent years, the gene editing capabilities that had lagged a little for the larger rodent have been coming up to par with their murine cousins. Is a return to rats on the way?

NIH Extrinsic Factors Workshop

Enhance Rigor and Reproducibility in Animal Research by Managing Extrinsic Factors

When: September 23, 28, and 30, 2022

Venue: Zoom

Register: scgcorp.com/ExtrinsicFactorsWS

The workshop will be a forum to discuss the current status of and needs for understanding extrinsic environmental factors; their potential impact on animal research outcomes; and how facilities may optimally manage, monitor, and report these extrinsic factors in an effort to enhance reproducibility and rigor in animal research. The focus of this workshop will be on identifying gaps, opportunities, and new approaches in husbandry of commonly and widely used animal models; relevant environmental factors and conditions; and the need for novel instruments, equipment, and infrastructure for animal research core facilities (e.g., modern design of research core facilities, high-throughput equipment, telemetry for behavioral research).

Exciting Job Opportunities
The RRRC is looking to expand its team!  We have positions available in colony management, data curation, cryobiology, reproductive biology, and customer service.  We are also looking for individuals interested in post-doctoral training with both a service and research emphasis.  Interested in learning more?  Contact Dr. Elizabeth Bryda at rrrc@missouri.edu.

Happy World Rat Day!
April 4, 2023 is World Rat Day!  The RRRC would like to acknowledge the important contributions to science and medicine made possible by the use of rats in biomedical research.