Adenovirus-mediated Transfer of GFP Gene into Human Veins Cultured in Vitro

Objective: This study was to investigate the efficiency, cellular targets, time curve of expression of mark gene after advenovirus-mediated transfer of gene into human veins in vitro. Methods: The human external jugular veins were obtained and soaked in buffer liquid containing AdCMV or AdCMV/GFP(5°Á109 pfu) for 60 minutes. On the 2nd, 7th, 14th day after organ culture, direct fluorescent examination was performed. Results: Adenovirus vector could transfer the mark gene (green fluorescent protein gene) into cultured veins efficiently. After 2 days the cultured veins expressed green fluorescent protein in intima and adventitia. Peak expression of green fluorescent protein occurred at the 7th day and remained elevated. No green fluorescent protein expressed in controls. Conclusion: Adenovirus vector can transfer gene into human veins efficiently. The main target cells are endothelial cells. Gene expression sustained for 2 weeks at least.