"Seed" - what is it, definition of the term
The term «Seed» denotes the embryonic plant encased in a protective integument, comprising a dormant embryo, a nutrient reserve, and a dispersal‑facilitating coat; for rodents such as rats and mice, these structures provide a concentrated source of calories and essential nutrients that sustain growth, reproduction, and daily activity.
Detailed information
The term refers to the original breeding stock used to establish colonies of laboratory rodents such as rats and mice. This stock provides the genetic baseline for experimental populations and is selected for health status, genetic purity, and documented lineage.
Key characteristics of the initial breeding stock include:
- Health monitoring results confirming absence of specific pathogens.
- Genetic background verified through pedigree records or molecular profiling.
- Proven reproductive performance, measured by litter size and breeding interval.
- Compatibility with intended experimental strains or transgenic constructs.
Maintenance of the original breeding stock requires controlled housing conditions, standardized diet, and regular health surveillance. Breeding protocols aim to minimize genetic drift by limiting the number of generations before refreshing the stock from a certified source.
Applications of the original breeding stock span multiple research areas:
- Pharmacological testing, where consistent genetic background reduces variability in drug response.
- Behavioral studies, relying on well‑characterized strain traits.
- Genetic engineering, providing a stable platform for introducing targeted modifications.
Regulatory guidelines mandate documentation of the source and health status of the original breeding stock. Compliance ensures reproducibility of results and adherence to animal welfare standards. «The integrity of experimental outcomes depends on the quality of the founding colony.»