Which B6 strain is best for my studies, the B6/J strain or its substrain the B6/NJ?
Using a consistent strain background will promote generation of more consistent data. The B6/J is the most published, best characterized mouse model available and has been the background of choice for thousands of genetically engineered mice. Also consider that the genotypic and phenotypic profiles of the B6/J and B6/NJ are different and one may be advantageous over the other for some studies. The B6/J, for example, gains weight faster on a high fat diet and is considered a desirable trait for many metabolic studies. Review the literature and consider what backgrounds have been used in your area of research or consider trying both strains if you are doing a pilot study. Both the B6/J and the B6/NJ are available from the Jackson Laboratory and are part of our unique Genetic Stability Program to drastically reduce genetic drift.
