High efficiency gene transfer into cultured primary rat and human hepatic stellate cells using baculovirus vectors.
OBJECTIVE
Gene transfer into hepatic stellate cells (HSC) is inefficient when using plasmid-based transfection methods; viral-based systems are therefore being developed. A baculovirus system has recently been shown to be useful for expressing genes in mammalian cells. The aim of this study was to determine if baculovirus vectors can infect and express target genes in rat and human HSC and to assess potential cytotoxic and modulatory effects of infection.


METHODS
A recombinant baculovirus vector (AcCALacZ) carrying the LacZ gene was used to infect HSC. beta-Galactosidase assays and electron microscopy were used to determine efficiency of infection and gene expression. Counting of trypan blue negative cells was used to assess cytotoxic/cytostatic effects of infection. Measurement of protein content of cells and alpha-smooth muscle actin expression were performed to assess the effects of baculovirus on cell function/phenotype.


RESULTS
Baculovirus infection of activated HSC was highly efficient (> 90%) and provided long-term LacZ gene expression (15 days) in the absence of cytotoxic, cytostatic or modulatory effects. Infection of freshly isolated cells was also observed but at lower levels (20%).


CONCLUSIONS
Baculovirus vectors can therefore be used to deliver target genes to cultured rat and human HSC with high efficiency and longevity in the absence of detrimental effects on cell function.
Gao
Runping
R
Liver Group, Division of Infection, Inflammation and Repair, University of Southampton, Level D, South Academic Block, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK.
McCormick
Christopher J
CJ
Arthur
Michael J P
MJ
Ruddell
Richard
R
Oakley
Fiona
F
Smart
David E
DE
Murphy
Frank R
FR
Harris
Mark P G
MP
Mann
Derek A
DA
D000199:Actins / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D016367:Baculoviridae / Q000235:genetics* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D002455:Cell Division / Q000502:physiology; D002470:Cell Survival / Q000502:physiology; D002478:Cells, Cultured / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000821:virology; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D005822:Genetic Vectors; D006801:Humans; D007763:Lac Operon; D008099:Liver / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000821:virology; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D011995:Recombination, Genetic; D018411:Spodoptera
D000199:Actins