Transfer of a foreign gene into the brain using adenovirus vectors

The ability of a replication–deficient adenovirus vector to transfer a foreign gene into neural cells of adult rats in vivo has been analysed. A large number of neural cells (including neurons, astrocytes and ependymal cells) expressed an E. coli lacZ transgene for at least 45 days after inoculation of various brain areas. Injecting up to 3×105 pfu in 10 μl did not result in any detectable cytopathic effects — these were only observed for very high litres of infection (>107 pfu 10μl−1). Adenovirus vectors therefore appear to be a promising means for in vivo transfer of therapeutic genes into the central nervous system.