Somatic transformation efficiencies and expression patterns using the JcDNV and piggyBac transposon gene vectors in insects.

Electroporation-mediated somatic transgenesis for rapid functional analysis in insects.

Transgenesis is a powerful technique for determining gene function; however, it is time-consuming. It is virtually impossible to carry out in non-model insects in which egg manipulation and screening are difficult. We have established a rapid genetic functional analysis system for non-model insects using a low-cost electroporator (costing under US$200) designed for somatic transformation with t...

Transposon-based vector systems for gene therapy clinical trials: challenges and considerations.

Much progress has been made in gene therapy, but significant challenges remain. One is development of a range of different tools that can be used for different therapeutic purposes. Another is site-specific gene targeting for safe and faithful therapeutic gene expression. Viruses have long been considered the most promising tools for human gene therapy. However, fatal side effects associated wi...

Development of piggyBac transposon-derived gene vectors and their utilization for transgenic insects

Insulated piggyBac vectors for insect transgenesis

BACKGROUND Germ-line transformation of insects is now a widely used method for analyzing gene function and for the development of genetically modified strains suitable for pest control programs. The most widely used transposable element for the germ-line transformation of insects is piggyBac. The site of integration of the transgene can influence gene expression due to the effects of nearby tra...

Generation of non-viral, transgene-free hepatocyte like cells with piggyBac transposon

Somatic cells can be reprogrammed to induced hepatocyte-like cells (iHeps) by overexpressing certain defined factors in direct reprogramming techniques. Of the various methods to deliver genes into cells, typically used genome-integrating viral vectors are associated with integration-related adverse events such as mutagenesis, whereas non-integrating viral vectors have low efficiency, making vi...