NUCLEIC ACID CONSTRUCTS FOR GENE EXPRESSION

摘要

Nucleic acid constructs comprising viral genomic nucleic acid which comprises at least two endogenous gene expression regulatory units which each comprise an endogenous promoter where the endogenous promoters of the units are active at the same phase in the viral life cycle of the virus the viral genomic nucleic acid is derived from are provided. The endogenous gene expression regulatory units are used to express particular chosen heterologous coding sequences and in particular to express heterologous antigens. The constructs can be used in a vaccine to generate an immune response against the heterologous antigens and in particular may be used in a DNA vaccine. Methods for generating the constructs and means for their administration are also provided.