Operational Support for the Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center

Intellectual Merit of the Proposed Activity: The axolotl (Ambysloma mexicanum) collection at Indiana University is a historically significant living resource that is used actively and widely in biological research. Most notably, axolotls are studied because they have the ability, unique among vertebrates, to perfectly regenerate numerous parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, fore- and hindlimbs, jaw, and tail, throughout embryonic, larval, and adult life. The recent and ongoing development of genome resources for the axolotl and other closely related species is establishing Ambysloma as a powerful nonmammalian vertebrate model system. Broader Impacts of the Proposed Activity: The proposal describes a plan to relocate the IU axolotl collection to the Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center (AGSC) at the University of Kentucky. Relocation of the collection to the AGSC will consolidate a focal living stock resource with genome and bioinformatics resources that are currently being developed for the Ambysloma research community. The AGSC will continue to enable traditional research areas where the axolotl is the best vertebrate model system (e.g. regeneration, neoteny). In addition, the AGSC will develop a more inclusive research provider framework to support a greater diversity ofNSF research and educational interests.