Importing genetically altered animals: ensuring quality

The reproducibility of research using laboratory animals requires reliable management of their quality, in particular of theirgenetics, health and environment, all of which contribute to their phenotypes. The point at which these biological materialsare transferred between researchers is particularly sensitive, as it may result in a loss of integrity of the animals and/or theirdocumentation. Here, we describe the various aspects of laboratory animal quality that should be confirmed when sharingrodent research models. We also discuss how repositories of biological materials support the scientific community to ensurethe continuity of the quality of laboratory animals. Both the concept of quality and the role of repositories themselves extendto all exchanges of biological materials and all networks that support the sharing of these reagents.