Adenovirus vectors generated from helper viruses and helper-dependent vectors

摘要

The present invention provides an improved helper-dependent vector system for production of high capacity adenoviral cloning vectors. The invention makes use of the DNA size packaging constraints imposed on a pIX-defective Ad virion that prevent such virions from packaging DNA larger than approximately 35 kb. This constraint can be used to develop helper viruses that do not package their DNA. In one embodiment, the invention combines this methodology with the Cre-loxP helper-dependent system to decrease the quantity of contaminating helper virus in vector preparations. In another embodiment the invention is used for vector growth.