The Gnotobiotics Facility supports research focused on the role of microbiota in cancer inflammation, pathogenesis, and response to treatment. We specialize in raising germ-free (axenic) mice as well as mice with a defined microbiome (gnotobiotic). 

Examining the role of microbes on cancer biology 

The Gnotobiotics Facility assists research efforts aimed at benefiting human health. We examine the roles that specific microbes have on cancer biology and assess how they can be targeted to benefit patients.  

Research with germ-free mice using microisolators in the LASP Gnotobiotic facility. Animal technician handling mice inside insulator.

Specialized technology and expertise

The facility can rederive mice into germ-free status, expand colonies of axenic and gnotobiotic mice, and maintain microbiome-defined lines of animals. In addition, we work with a variety of mouse models, particularly in the fields of immunology and cancer research.
What is this? Animal technician handling germ-free mice inside microinsulator.
Information
Environmentally controlled bio-containment caging in the GF used in human microbiota studies.

Dedicated support for all phases of study

We work with investigators to develop and monitor germ-free mouse colonies and examine the effects of microbiota on mouse models of human cancer.
What is this? Environmentally controlled bio-containment caging in the GF used in human microbiota studies.
Information

Our capabilities and specializations

Germ-free animal colony management 

Our facility has specialized equipment, such as flexible film isolators and biocontainment racks, to support the sterile conditions required for the maintenance of axenic and gnotobiotic mice.  

Bio-containment caging
Environmentally controlled bio-containment caging used for human microbiota-association studies.
Germ-free isolators
Animal technician maintaining germ-free isolators.
Microisolators
Research with germ-free mice using microisolators. 
Autoclave
Cylinders containing autoclaved supplies for bio-isolators.

  • Genetic, viral, or chemical disease induction in mouse models 

  • Germ-free strain rederivation and colony expansion 

  • Colony management for rodent line maintenance, expansion, and cohort production 

  • Introduction of gnotophoric agents or known microbiota to generate gnotobiotic mice 

  • Subcutaneous, intravenous, retroorbital, intraperitoneal, mammary fat pad, intracardiac, and intramuscular tumor cell implants 

  • Broad spectrum of technical procedures, including certain ABSL2 methods