Envigo is launching the “R2G2” mouse, a Rag2/IL2RG double knockout model to help address common challenges researchers experience with current models used in oncology, immuno-oncology and infectious disease research.  
 
One key benefits of the R2G2 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.
 
Mike Caulfield, president of Contract Research Services and Research Model Services in North America at Envigo, said, “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 NSGTM model. In short, R2G2 provides a translational research approach that will help customers to more accurately predict outcomes.”
 
Envigo is currently validating the model’s potential humanization benefits. 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.