Lrrk2 flox-R1441G

Dardarin, also known as leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (coded by *Lrrk2*), is involved in regulating inflammation, protein processing, and autophagy. *Lrrk2* mutations have been implicated in familial Parkinson's disease. The R1441G clinical mutation occurs in the 'Ras of complex proteins' (ROC) domain of the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 protein, reducing GTPase activity. These LRRK2 flox-R1441G mice possess *loxP* sites flanking wildtype exons 31-51 of the *Lrrk2* gene and a mutant exon 31, carrying the R1441G missense mutation, inserted immediately downstream of the second *loxP* site. Homozygous mice are viable and fertile with no overt phenotype. Prior to Cre-mediated recombination, homozygous LRRK2 flox-R1441G mice demonstrate LRRK2 protein levels in brain tissue similar to wildtype controls. After Cre-mediated recombination, the wildtype exons 31-51 will be excised and the mutant exon 31 with the R1441G mutation is expressed in *cre*-expressing tissues. These mice may be useful for studying hereditary Parkinson's disease.