The impetus for the program resulted from the recognition that:

• The value of genomic data would remain limited unless more information about the functionality of its individual components became available.
• The task of linking genes to specific behavior would best be accomplished by employing a combination of different approaches. In an effort to complement already existing programs, the Neuroscience Mutagenesis Facility decided to use: a random, genome-wide approach to mutagenesis, i.e.N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) as the mutagen; a three-generation back-cross breeding scheme to focus on the detection of recessive mutations; behavioral screens selective for the detection of phenotypes deemed useful for the program goals.

The resulting mutant mouse lines have been available to the scientific community for the last five years and over 700 NMF mice have been sent to interested investigators for research; these mutant mouse lines will remain available as frozen embryos (which can be re-derived on request) and can be ordered through the JAX customer service at 1-800-422-6423 (or 207-288-5845).