Stable and efficient gene transfer into the mutant retinal pigment epithelial cells of the Mitf(vit) mouse using a lentiviral vector

Deni S. Galileo, Kristi Hunter, Sylvia B. Smith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the present study was to test whether a lentiviral vector encoding the marker lacZ gene under the control of the human CMV promoter would stably infect a significant number of RPE cells in the vitiligo mouse. This mouse harbors a mutation in the microphthalmia gene in RPE cells that leads to slow progressive photoreceptor cell degeneration. Methods. Concentrated lentiviral vector HR'CMVlacZ was injected intravitreally into newborn vitiligo mice. Mice were sacrificed at various time points up to two months post-injection and eyes were processed histochemically to detect lacZ expression. Results. The lentiviral vector infected predominantly the RPE and resulted in lacZ expression in numerous RPE cells at all times analyzed. Conclusions. LacZ expression in vitiligo RPE cells appeared to be stable for a period of at least two months. These results raise the possibility of using a similar lentiviral vector for introduction of a correct copy of the microphthalmia cDNA into the RPE that may ultimately rescue photoreceptor cells in this mutant mouse.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)135-142
Number of pages8
JournalCurrent Eye Research
Volume18
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1999

Keywords

  • Gene therapy
  • Lentiviral vector
  • Mitf gene
  • Mouse
  • Retinal degeneration
  • Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology
  • Sensory Systems
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Stable and efficient gene transfer into the mutant retinal pigment epithelial cells of the Mitf(vit) mouse using a lentiviral vector'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this