C57BL/6-Aged Mouse Details
C57BL/6 mice are the most used inbred strain in research. Our C57BL/6 mouse colonies are genetically identical within each strain, making them free of genetic differences that could impact research results. Inbred mouse strains exhibit a high degree of uniformity in their inherited characteristics, or phenotypes, which include appearance, behavior, and response to experimental treatments. Our aged animals are useful for studying various age-related diseases. At Charles River, cohorts of male and female mice are set aside at weaning, and will be housed together up until ~77 weeks of age. Mice are available for immediate studies, eliminating your need to wait for animals to naturally age.
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Rodent Model Genetic Quality Control
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Quality and Origin
We use our International Genetic Standardization (IGS) program coupled with a pyramid mating system designed to maintain the highest levels of genetic uniformity in our C57BL/6 mice. The pyramid mating system ensures our C57BL/6 mice are genetically identical within each mouse strain. We also offer the C57BL/6 Mouse, C57BL/6-Germ-Free Mouse, and C57BL/6-Elite (SOPF) Mouse with a VAF/Elite® health profile.
Developed by C.C. Little in 1921, from a mating of Miss Abby Lathrop's stock that also gave rise to strains C57BR and C57L. Strains 6 and 10 separated about 1937. To The Jackson Laboratory in 1948 from Hall. To NIH in 1951 from The Jackson Laboratory at F32. To Charles River in 1974 from NIH.
For representative weight data, see our eBook
LOCATION: Hollister
UNIT: H47
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Technical Resources
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C57BL/6-Aged Mouse Model Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the C57BL/6-Aged Mouse Model
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What age qualifies as "aged" in mice?
Aged mice are typically 18 – 24 months old, depending on the strain. This age range reflects significant physiological changes associated with aging.
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What is the typical age range of aged mice when ordered?
Charles River offers aged C57BL/6 mice between approximately 25 and 90 weeks of age, with most cohorts matured to around 77 weeks of age. This eliminates the need for in-house aging and accelerates study timelines. If you're interested in receiving older animals, please let us know and we can hold them until they're at the required age for your research.
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Which research fields benefit from aged C57BL/6 mice?
Aged C57BL/6 mice are ideal for research in immunology, cancer biology, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes, and age-related hearing loss. Their natural aging process makes them a gold standard for studies in gerontology and chronic disease.
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Do you provide both male and female aged mice?
Yes. We offer aged mice of both sexes to support studies on sex-specific differences in aging.
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How genetically consistent are your aged C57BL/6 mice?
Charles River maintains genetic integrity through its International Genetic Standardization (IGS) program. This ensures uniformity across inbred strains, reducing variability, and improving reproducibility in preclinical studies.
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Which health profiles are available for C57BL/6 aged mice?
C57BL/6 Aged Mice are available at VAF/Plus (SPF). C57BL/6 are also available at VAF/Elite (SOPF). See more information about our health profiles.
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How are your C57BL/6 mice monitored for health status?
Our animal models, including C57BL/6 mice, are monitored using a variety of techniques, including serology, whole-animal testing, and environmental testing via exhaust-air dust (EAD®) analysis. We publish health reports for all of our animal research models.
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What lifespan can I expect for C57BL/6 mice?
C57BL/6 mice typically live 27 – 29 months, with some reaching 36 months. This extended lifespan makes them suitable for long-term aging studies and modelling chronic diseases.
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How quickly can I begin a study after ordering?
Studies may begin immediately upon delivery of Charles River’s aged C57BL/6 mice. Pre-aged cohorts eliminate the need for long aging periods, saving time and resources on age-related research projects.
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Do you have any other aged mice or rats available?
We currently offer only aged C57BL/6 mice. If you are interested in other aged rat or mouse models, please contact us about our preconditioning aging services.
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Where are the C57BL/6 aged mice produced and how are they shipped?
These mice are currently produced at our Hollister, CA facility. They will be shipped in divided crates with their cagemates.