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HSV-1-based amplicon vectors: design and applications

Gene Therapy volume 12, pages S154–S158 (2005)Cite this article

Abstract

Amplicons are defective, helper-dependent herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-based vectors able to convey more than 100 kbp of foreign DNA to the nucleus of mammalian cells. This unique feature make amplicons very appealing for preventive or therapeutic gene transfer requiring the transduction of very large pieces of DNA, as well as for upstream fundamental studies, such as functional genomics. Several recent achievements in amplicon technology have allowed to produce relatively large amounts of essentially helper-free amplicons, as well as to expand the host range of these vectors. In this review, we will update the current know-how concerning design, construction, and recent applications, as well as the potential and current limitations, of this interesting and promising class of vectors.

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Acknowledgements

AL Epstein acknowledges AFM (Association Française contre les Myopathies) and ARC (Association pour la Recherche sur le Cancer) for constant support to his laboratory.

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  1. Centre de Génétique Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS – UMR 5534, Université Claude Bernard Lyon, Villeurbanne, France

    Alberto L Epstein

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Epstein, A. HSV-1-based amplicon vectors: design and applications. Gene Ther 12 (Suppl 1), S154–S158 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.gt.3302617

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