Adeno-associated virus (AAV)

Recombinant AAV is a replication defective, non-enveloped, non-pathogenic ssDNA virus- a very popular viral tool in research and nowadays in clinics. They rarely integrate into the host cell genome and remain primarily episomal. Recombinant AAV-mediated transgene expression can persist for several years. There is transgene size limitation, it cannot accommodate large DNA sequences (can package a small payload up to 4.4 kb). Efficient for conditional expression of transgenes in combination with transgenics lines. Different serotypes with different cell-specific tropism can be custom synthesized.

Recombinant viruses can be custom synthesized on a fee-for service basis, when the customer provides transgene construct for virus production. Vector core can assist in research by designing novel constructs and subsequent production of the viruses, please consult the core facility for the details.