PCR Optimization for Detection of Transgene Integration

The use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of transgenic founder mice or their offspring is outlined. Numerous sources of information are available dealing with the theory, performance, and optimization of PCR analysis in a variety of applications. This brief overview is intended to address some of the general considerations for PCR analysis and some of the particular concerns when using this technique to detect transgene integration in experimental animals (especially laboratory mice).