Zika Mouse Pregnancy Model

A mouse pregnancy model is now available from IITRI to evaluate the ability of vaccines or antivirals for protection against Zika virus (ZIKV) maternal-fetal viral transmission and resulting fetal defects such as microcephaly. Details of this mouse model and its use to evaluate two vaccine candidates (one currently in clinical studies) are available in a recently published study in the July 13 issue of Cell.*

In this model, wt female mice are vaccinated followed by serum analysis for neutralizing antibodies. The mice are then mated with unvaccinated males, and challenged with ZIKV. An Ifnar1 antibody to block the interferon response is utilized to facilitate ZIKV infection. Maternal and fetal organs are analyzed for the presence of ZIKV infection and damage.

Contact us for more information on the Zika mouse pregnancy model and to schedule your study.

*Richner JM, et al. Vaccine Mediated Protection Against Zika Virus-Induced Congenital Disease. Cell.170(2):273-83