TETRACYCLINE-REGULATED GENE EXPRESSION IN HSV-1 VECTORS

摘要

The present invention is directed to HSV-1 vectors which rely on the tetracycline repressor and operator as a means for regulating expression. The vectors utilize VP-16 responsive promoters of HSV to control expression of the tetracycline repressor. The vectors are of particular interest as vehicles for recombinantly expressing genes in vivo.

主权项

1. An HSV-1 viral vector having a genomic DNA construct comprising:
a) at least two tetR nucleotide sequences coding for the tetracycline repressor, wherein the expression of each tetR nucleotide sequence is under the control of a VP-16 responsive immediate early promoter selected from the group consisting of: the ICP-0 immediate early promoter of HSV-1; the ICP-4 immediate early promoter of HSV-1; LAP2/ICP0; and LAP2/ICP4; b) an additional promoter wherein additional promoter includes a TATA element; c) a tetracycline operator sequence positioned between 6 and 24 nucleotides 3′ to said TATA element; and d) a structural sequence whose expression is regulated by said additional promoter.