Say hello to the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), a resourceful virus that will find a way to deliver large transgenes into a variety of cells! In particular, it enjoys spending time in brainy locales like neurons, but this most courteous guest won't impose itself, being a non-integrative virus. In this seventh addition to our Vectors and Viruses Spotlight Series, find out why you should consider using the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) system for your gene expression projects!
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"Greetings, I am Henry Simpson the Fifth. I may look bookish, but I’m actually quite strong! You can count on me to deliver even the largest genes. I particularly enjoy settling down inside of neuronal cells for some long term gene expression. I’d like to think that I’m a polite guest, since I don’t integrate into their genome in the process. "
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a neurotrophic virus with a large (152 kb) dsDNA genome. HSV does not integrate into the host DNA, but is known to establish long-term latent infections by remaining as a chromatinzed episome in the host nucleus. HSV has a broad host cell range, including non-dividing cells that may normally be difficult to transduce, such as neuronal cells.
Due to its large genome size, HSV is an excellent choice for delivering transgenes that would be too large to package in other viruses. It is particularly useful for targeting neuronal cells as it is able to establish stable long term gene expression in neurons, without integration. It also has the interesting ability to be transported within neurons and across synapses. This property can be exploited to trace neuronal pathways by introducing the vector into peripheral sites like skin or muscle then locating transgene expression in the neuronal cell bodies which connect to those sites.
abm offers custom recombinant HSV, including subcloning/gene synthesis and viral packaging.
abm’s Custom HSV Service is available with the CMV promoter (others are available upon request), with or without the addition of a GFP reporter, and includes custom gene synthesis/subcloning and viral production.
Don't know which viral vector to choose?
You know you want to express a gene, but when it comes time to choose an expression vector, your choices can seem overwhelming. Do you go viral or non-viral? Which virus should you use? Or maybe it's not a protein you need to express, but an RNA species?
Try using our Vector Selection Tool. Cut through the fog with this Vector Selection Tool. Simple, clear recommendations for every application.
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