Center for Integrative and Translational Research (CITRES)

Mission Statement:

At the Center for Integrative and Translational Research (CITRes), our mission is to function as a state-of-the-art animal research facility dedicated to advancing fundamental biological knowledge and deepening our understanding of human disease mechanisms. Through the use of mouse, rat, and zebrafish models—including wild-type, transgenic, and gene-edited lines—we explore a wide range of biological phenomena, from development and genetics to physiology and behavior. Upholding the highest standards of animal care and welfare, we collaborate closely with our researchers to ensure all studies are conducted ethically and humanely. By leveraging integrative and translational approaches, we aim to produce high-quality research that ultimately benefits human health, drives innovation in biomedical science, and fulfills our commitment to responsible resource use and scientific excellence.

Vision:

Our vision is to be a globally recognized center of excellence in animal research, where groundbreaking discoveries using mouse, rat, and zebrafish models pave the way for innovative solutions to improve human health and well-being.

We aspire to positively impact society by advancing our understanding of fundamental biology and disease mechanisms, ultimately leading to improved diagnostics, treatments, and preventive strategies.

Through dedication to our mission and core values, we aim to be at the forefront of scientific progress and become a valued resource for the community of researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals striving to address the pressing challenges of human health and disease today.

 

Accreditation & Compliance

Accreditation and compliance play a vital role in maintaining ethical standards, scientific credibility, and public trust in animal research. By adhering to rigorous regulations and guidelines, research facilities ensure that animal welfare is safeguarded, experimental procedures are transparent, and results are both reliable and reproducible. This commitment not only fosters responsible science but also promotes greater collaboration and innovation within the scientific community.

CPCSEA Certificate & Active IAEC

Center for Integrative and Translational Research (CITRES) is registered with the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA)—a statutory committee under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D)—as mandated by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960.

The registration number of CITRES is 2253/PO/ReRcBi/S/23/CCSEA

CITRES operates with an active Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC), ensuring that all research projects—whether for educational or commercial purposes—are critically reviewed and approved before commencement. These measures reinforce our commitment to conducting ethically responsible, high-quality research.

Ethical Standards & Animal Welfare

Commitment to 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement):

We are guided by the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement in every aspect of our animal facility’s work. We maintain carefully developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all activities, ensuring that animal use is optimized and unnecessary duplication of experiments is avoided. Detailed records of day-to-day operations, along with regular monitoring for infectious agents, help safeguard colony health and minimize the number of animals needed. By continually refining our methods to improve animal welfare, we uphold our commitment to conducting ethical and responsible research.

All laboratory animals are housed in species-specific environments designed to meet their physiological and behavioral needs, and they receive regular enrichment to promote their well-being.

Facilities

Physical Infrastructure

A state-of-the-art 30,000 square feet preclinical research facility designed to support diverse biomedical research needs. Equipped with advanced infrastructure, it houses multiple rodent animal models in  a  Specific  Pathogen-Free (SPF) environment and offers specialized laboratory spaces  for  imaging,  genome  engineering, surgeries and behavioral studies. 

It has a dedicated zebrafish facility designed to house several genetic strains in individually maintained tanks, enabling large-scale genetic and developmental studies. With its dedicated  ABSL-2  lab  for  moderate-hazard infectious agents, CITRES provides a versatile, high-standard setting for rigorous pre-clinical studies across multiple research domains.

Scientific Infrastructure

Our lab is equipped with advanced scientific infrastructure to support high-quality research across developmental biology, neuroscience, molecular biology, and imaging:

• IVIS Spectrum Imaging System
  For non-invasive, real-time bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging in small animal models.
• Embryo Handling Lab
  Specialized lab featuring RI Integra micromanipulator, Nepagene electroporator, stereo microscopes, and planar incubator for embryo manipulation and electroporation.
• Neurobehavioral Laboratory
  Fully equipped lab for behavioral and neurological assessments in rodent models.
• Molecular Biology Laboratory
  Includes PCR machines, gel electrophoresis units, refrigerated centrifuges, and cold storage for molecular and genetic analysis.
• Flow Cytometry Platform
  Located within the tissue culture lab, supporting immunophenotyping and cell sorting applications.

Microinjection and Live Imaging Setup in Zebrafish facility
Dedicated facility for generating transgenic lines and supporting live imaging of developmental processes in zebrafish.

• Breeding Rooms: spaces dedicated to breeding and maintenance of genetically modified lines.
• Procedure Rooms: space and equipment for surgeries, sample collection.

Services

Genome editing (using CRISPR technologies) and transgenic model development to support cutting-edge and innovative research.

Sperm and embryo cryopreservation, rederivation, and preservation of genetic lines, ensuring the longevity and accessibility of valuable models.

A colony of New Zealand white Rabbits is maintained to support research investigators in the generation of polyclonal antibodies.

Comprehensive in vivo technical support to streamline research processes of collaborators and customers, and ensure consistent, high-quality results. Our skilled staff can assist with various procedures, including dosing, in-life monitoring, specimen collection, and terminal procedures. By providing these specialized services, we help researchers focus on their scientific objectives while maintaining the highest standards of animal care and welfare.

Advanced in vivo imaging services through the PerkinElmer Pre-clinical 3D Imaging System IVIS SPECTRUM by Revvity, offering a non-invasive and highly sensitive platform for real-time visualization of biological processes in small animal models. By enabling researchers to track disease progression, monitor therapeutic effects, and follow cellular or molecular events in living subjects, this cutting-edge technology facilitates faster, more accurate data collection. The IVIS system’s integrated software further streamlines analysis and presentation, ensuring high-quality insights into a range of translational research applications.

Consulting and training programs for scientists seeking advanced understanding in genetics, developmental biology, disease modeling, and therapeutic innovations.

Breeding & Colony Management

• Custom Breeding - We specialize in creating and maintaining tailor-made colonies of transgenic, gene-edited, and wild-type strains. Our expert breeding team ensures precise genetic management, enabling researchers to work with models that align perfectly with their experimental goals.
• Health Monitoring - Our periodic health surveillance program safeguards the integrity of every colony. Regular testing, expert veterinary oversight, and stringent workflows help us maintain a clean and disease-free environment, ensuring optimal research outcomes.
• Cryopreservation & Embryo Transfer - By freezing and storing genetic material, we preserve valuable lines for future projects and protect against potential loss. Our embryo transfer services assist in rapidly establishing or reconstituting specialized strains, offering flexibility and reliability for your research needs. Cryopreservation of lines also allows us to adhere to the 3Rs of laboratory animal management policy.

Contract Research

With advanced infrastructure, cutting-edge equipment, and a highly trained team, CITRES is well-positioned to serve as a reliable contract research partner. Our facility supports a broad spectrum of studies, from routine tests to sophisticated, customized experiments. Leveraging our expertise in animal model development, genetic engineering, and robust data analysis, we deliver high-quality, reproducible results that meet the exact needs of our collaborators. Our commitment to ethical practices and strict compliance with regulatory standards ensures every project is conducted responsibly, making CITRES a trusted ally for both academic and industry partners.

Training & Workshops

Technical Workshops: Animal handling, ethical compliance, surgical techniques.

 

Contact & Inquiries

Contact: [email protected]