Protocol for X-ray irradiation of C57BL/6J recipient mice followed by the transplantation of mTomato-expressing bone marrow cells

Bone marrow chimera is a useful tool to determine the pathophysiological contributions of hematopoietic versus stromal compartments. Here, we present a protocol for lethal irradiation of wild-type C57BL/6J recipient mice followed by the transplantation of bone marrow from mTomato-expressing donors. We then detail procedures for animal distress scoring and assessment of reconstitution efficiency. This protocol will minimize distress and ensure efficient hematopoietic reconstitution of donor cells in recipients.