Vector ProductionServices

The services provided by the Vector Production Facility are preclinical and include:

  1. Access to plasmid, cell lines, and other reagents used in the generation of gene transfer vectors. The IU VPF maintains a significant stock of reagents used in preclinical and clinical gene transfer.
  2. Generation and characterization of cell lines and viral vectors. The facility is the production site for retroviral and lentiviral vectors for the NIH-sponsored National Gene Vector Laboratory program. It is also capable of producing other viral vector systems for preclinical needs. The facility can assist investigators at one or all steps in vector production. The facility has a number of characterization tests available to ensure the quality of cell lines and vectors generated in the IU VPF or in an investigators' research laboratory.
  3. Molecular diagnostic services. To date, a large component of requested services from the IU VPF have focused on molecular testing. Services have included titering of vector supernatants and analysis of gene transfer efficiency using real-time PCR assays. The IU VPF also conducts molecular testing related to human gene therapy trials and other clinical samples.
  4. Scientific and regulatory support. If requested, the IU VPF provides training in the generation of vector material. An increasing number of investigators use laboratory space within the facility for BL2/BL3 containment procedures, usually related to the use of lentiviral vectors. Also, the facility is well versed in the scientific basis and regulatory requirements associated with clinical and preclinical gene transfer experiments. The facility aids investigators who must navigate these issues in pursuit of translational clinical trials.

For more information, visit the Indiana University Vector Production Facility Web site.