The Viral Vector Core at Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience is a well-equipped facility with a rare expertise to make high quality viruses for research purposes. The Core is a non-profit facility that offers consultation, design and construction of a wide variety of viral vectors to augment scientific research.
Recombinant viruses are highly efficient gene delivery vehicles for introducing molecular tools to difficult-to-transfect primary cells, to create stable cell lines, to transduce tissues in vivo for elucidating underlying biological mechanisms and nowadays for gene therapy applications in clinics.
A combinatorial approach using viral vectors with the vast repertoire of transgenic animals available is a powerful strategy to target specific cells in complex organs such as mammalian brains.
Adeno-associated virus, Moloney murine leukemia virus, Lenti virus and pseudotyped G-deleted rabies virus are all common transgene-delivery agents, each having distinct characteristics making them suitable for specific research questions.
Depending on the scientific question, one may need viral tools with specific features, demanding novel vector designs.
Recombinant viruses can be custom synthesized on a fee-for service basis, when the customer provides transgene construct for virus production. Vector core can assist in research by designing novel constructs and subsequent production of the viruses, please consult the core facility for the details.
