Lentiviral Vector-Based Models of Amyloid Pathology: From Cells to Animals
Authors: Shaughnessy, Laura1; Thomas, Mary B.1; Wakefield, John1; Chamblin, Beth1; Nair, Ayyappan1; Koentgen, Frank1; Ramabhadran, Ram1
Source: Current Alzheimer Research, Volume 2, Number 2, April 2005 , pp. 239-247(9)
Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers
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Abstract:
Lentiviral vectors are efficient tools for the introduction of genes into a wide range of established and primary cells in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo, and also permit efficient transgenesis in a wide range of mammalian species. Our goals have been to apply the broad capabilities of the lentiviral vector system to AD research. Using a set of vectors expressing APP and PS1 genes, we demonstrated the efficiency and fidelity of the system for in vitro biochemical analyses of genes and pathways involved in plaque deposition. These analyses were performed in cell lines and in primary neuronal cultures, which have previously been difficult to use. The methods and tools described here are applicable to the study of effects of other genes and gene combinations on APP processing, including suppression of gene activity by delivering shRNAs. We have attempted to create local plaque pathology by stereotactic injection of APP and PS1 expressing vectors into mouse brains for use as a rapid model for plaque pathology that can be used in a broad range of mammals. No amyloid or preamyloid pathology has been detected over a six-month period; the possible reasons are discussed. Lastly, we have used the vectors to create transgenic rats expressing mutant APP and mutant PS1 and have obtained the first set of positive pups with more expected. The results presented here demonstrate the utility of Lentiviral vector-based approaches to the study of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.Keywords: app; presenilin; transgenic rat; primary neuronal cultures
Document Type: Review article
DOI: 10.2174/1567205053585963
Affiliations: 1: Tranzyme Pharma Inc., 21 Davis Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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