Floxing

Floxing is a term used in the field of genetics to describe the process of creating a conditional knockout organism. This process involves the use of loxP sites, short DNA sequences that can be recognized and cut by the Cre recombinase enzyme. The term "floxing" is derived from the words "flanked by loxP."

Process

The process of floxing involves the insertion of loxP sites on either side of a specific gene in the DNA of an organism. This is typically done using recombinant DNA techniques. Once the loxP sites are in place, the Cre recombinase enzyme can be introduced. This enzyme recognizes the loxP sites and cuts the DNA at these locations, effectively removing the gene in between.

The Cre recombinase enzyme can be introduced in a variety of ways, including through the use of a viral vector, or by breeding the organism with another that already expresses the enzyme. The timing and location of the Cre recombinase introduction can be controlled, allowing for the creation of conditional knockouts, where the gene is only removed in certain cells or at certain times.

Applications

Floxing has a wide range of applications in genetic research. It allows for the study of gene function in a more controlled and specific manner than traditional knockout techniques. By creating conditional knockouts, researchers can study the effects of removing a gene in specific tissues or at specific stages of development.

Floxing is also used in the creation of transgenic animals, particularly mice. These animals are used in a wide range of research, including studies of human diseases.

See Also

• Gene knockout
• Recombinant DNA
• Transgenic animals

References

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  Flow chart illustrating the floxing process
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  Diagram of a Cre-LoxP experiment