Effect of different approaches of lentiviral vector transfection on target gene expression in rat liver

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the optimal approach of lentiviral vector transfection for effective delivery of exogenous gene into the liver. METHODS: The lentiviral vector was delivered via the ileocolic vein of the ileocecus (portal vein group) or via the caudal vein of SD rats. The effect gene transfection into the liver was assessed by observing the expression of green fluorescence protein expression carried by the lentiviral vector, silencing of LXRα mRNA expression mediated by RNA interference, and liver transaminase changes. The efficiency and safety of the two approaches of transfection were evaluated. RESULTS: All the rats receiving lentiviral transfection survived. In the portal vein group, abundant green fluorescence was detected in the liver at 96 h following the transfection and lasted till 14 days, whereas only weak fluorescence was observed in the caudal vein group. The results of RT-PCR demonstrated a significant higher rate of LXRα knock-down in portal vein group than in caudal vein group (0.135∓0.002 vs 0.713∓0.036, P<0.05). No significant difference in ALT levels found between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Infusion via the potal vein is effective for gene transfection into the liver, and puncture from the ileocolic vein of ileocecus can guarantee the survival of rats and improve the transfection efficiency without causing liver injury.