Human artificial chromosome-based gene delivery vectors for biomedicine and biotechnology

Abstract

Introduction: Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) have several advantages over viruses as gene delivery vectors, including stable episomal maintenance in a single copy and the ability to carry large gene inserts.

Areas covered: In this review, we summarise recent work on gene transfer into mammalian cells using the HACs. HACs allow therapeutic transgenes to be expressed in target cells under conditions that recapitulate the physiological regulation of endogenous loci.

Expert opinion: Based on the published data, the HAC vectors have a great potential for gene therapy, regenerative medicine, screening of anticancer drugs and biotechnology.

Keywords::

• gene delivery vector
• gene expression
• gene therapy
• human artificial chromosomes
• insulators
• TAR cloning

Notes

This box summarises key points contained in the article.