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Lentiviral vectors

Lentiviral vectors are a type of viral vector commonly used in gene therapy and molecular biology to deliver genetic material into cells. They are derived from lentiviruses, a family of viruses that includes the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Lentiviral vectors have been modified to remove the viral genes responsible for replication and pathogenicity, making them safe for use in research and therapeutic applications.

Key characteristics of lentiviral vectors include:

1. Efficient Gene Delivery: Lentiviral vectors can efficiently transfer genetic material into both dividing and non-dividing cells, making them suitable for a wide range of cell types.

2. Long-Lasting Expression: Lentiviral vectors can integrate their genetic cargo into the host cell's genome, allowing for sustained gene expression over an extended period.

3. Large Cargo Capacity: Lentiviral vectors have a relatively large packaging capacity, enabling the delivery of larger genes or multiple genes at once.

4. Broad Tropism: Different strains or pseudotypes of lentiviral vectors can be engineered to target specific cell types or tissues.

5. Minimal Immune Response: Lentiviral vectors typically induce a lower immune response compared to some other viral vectors, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.

Lentiviral vectors are constructed by replacing most of the viral genome with the therapeutic or experimental gene of interest. The viral genes required for replication are removed, and the vector is equipped with elements that allow it to package and integrate the genetic material into the host cell's DNA. Lentiviral vectors can be produced in the laboratory using packaging cell lines that provide the necessary viral proteins in trans.

Applications of lentiviral vectors include:

• Gene Therapy: Lentiviral vectors are used to deliver therapeutic genes to treat genetic disorders, immune deficiencies, and other diseases.

• Gene Editing: Lentiviral vectors can carry gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 to enable precise modifications of the host cell's genome.

• Cellular Engineering: Lentiviral vectors are used to engineer cells for research and therapeutic purposes, including stem cell-based therapies.

• Cancer Immunotherapy: Lentiviral vectors are employed in the genetic modification of immune cells, such as T cells, to enhance their ability to target and kill cancer cells.

• Neurological Disorders: Lentiviral vectors are utilized for delivering genes to neurons in the central nervous system, offering potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Lentiviral vectors have contributed significantly to advancing the field of gene therapy and genetic engineering. Their versatility, efficient gene transfer, and ability to achieve long-lasting gene expression make them valuable tools for developing innovative treatments and conducting research in various biological contexts.

Related Service

• GenScript learning resources: https://www.genscript.com/cell-gene-therapy-handbook.html

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Service and Products

Gene Synthesis

Offer gene synthesis of 100% sequence guarantee, free codon optimization, DNA synthesis in as fast as 4 days.

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Largest commercial ORF clones database, 70,000 next-day shipping ORF clones.

Plasmid DNA Preparation

High quality plasmids supported by fully-automated platform, 100% full insert sequence accuracy guaranteed.

Express Cloning & Subcloning

$49 and 2 day turnaround, choose from over 150 IP FREE vectors.

Mutation and Library Services

Mutagenesis Portfolio offers several mutation and library services to meet various customers’ needs.

Oligo Synthesis

Bridge the gap between chemically synthesized oligos and bological applications.

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