Viral Vector for Neural Circuitry Research

• AAV For Neural Circuitry Research
• HSV For Neural Circuitry Research

Overview of Viral Vector for Neural Circuitry Research

Introduction of Viral Vector

Brain is the most complex organ in humans, and it has been considered as the origin of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. According to reports, it contains more than 86 billion neurons and 85 billion glial cells. To better understand the connection and function between neurons and glia, it is urgent to develop novel tools.

A virus is a non-cellular structure composed of nucleic acid and proteins, while the viral vector refers to the genetically modified vector generated via genetic engineering. Its safety is guaranteed by completely or largely eliminate the pathogenic genes in the virus so that it can be widely used in neuroscience, metabolism, oncology, and other multidisciplinary research fields. Here, we focus on the application of viral vector systems in neuropsychiatric research.

Fig.1 Application of viral vectors in neuroscience research.¹

Applications of Viral Vector in Neuroscience

There are three major goals for neuroscience research, namely, to understand, protect and mimic the brain. To achieve these goals, it is essential to combine multiple technologies, such as optogenetics, calcium imaging, genetic manipulation, and pharmacology. It is worth noting that viral vectors play an important role in these technologies. There are a series of viral vectors used in laboratories, such as adeno-associated virus (AAV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), lentivirus, adenovirus, and retrovirus. Using viral vectors, the location specificity, time specificity, and cell-type specificity of gene expression can be determined.

Neural labeling and tracing technology is the basis of neuroscience research. A variety of viral vectors have been developed for cell labeling. By using specific promoters and viral vectors, neuron labeling and manipulation at the cellular and subcellular levels can be achieved. What's more, the powerful ability to carry genes allows viral vectors to be used in gene therapy. Due to the high infection efficiency and low immunogenicity, AAV has been served as the preferred gene carrier for a variety of diseases,

Features of Viral Vector

• High safety
• Greater precision
• More specificity
• Low immunogenicity
• Contains marker genes
• Used both in vivo and in vitro

Creative Biolabs is pleased to use our extensive experience to offer the best service and the most qualified products to satisfy each demand from our customers, such as AAV and HSV based neural circuitry research. If you are interested in our services and products, please do not hesitate to contact us for more detailed information.

Services at Creative Biolabs

We offer a comprehensive suite of viral vectors for neural circuitry research, specifically designed for use in neuroscience research. Our expertise in viral vector technology allows us to provide custom solutions for a wide range of applications, including gene delivery, optogenetics, and chemogenetics.

• Our viral vector services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each research project, from vector design and production to in vivo delivery and validation.
• We offer a wide variety of viral vector platforms, including lentiviral vectors, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), and retroviruses, each optimized for different applications and experimental requirements.
• In addition to viral vector production, we provide comprehensive support services, including assistance with experimental design, protocol development, and data analysis.

Our viral vector services are designed to facilitate groundbreaking discoveries in neuroscience research, enabling researchers to explore the complexities of the brain and develop new insights into the mechanisms underlying neural function and dysfunction. Contact us today to learn more about how our viral vector services can support your research goals.

We also offer flexibility in our services, including but not limited to:

Applications

Our services offer a comprehensive platform for gene delivery and manipulation in the central nervous system.

• Targeted gene delivery: Our viral vectors can be engineered to express specific genes or shRNAs, allowing researchers to manipulate gene expression in specific cell types within neural circuits.
• Optogenetics and chemogenetics: Our viral vectors can be used to express optogenetic or chemogenetic tools, such as channelrhodopsin or designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs), to modulate neural activity with high temporal and spatial precision.
• Circuit tracing: Our viral vectors can be used for anterograde or retrograde tracing of neural circuits, allowing researchers to map the connections between different brain regions.
• Circuit manipulation: Our viral vectors can be used to manipulate neural activity in specific brain regions or cell types, allowing researchers to probe the causal relationship between neural circuit activity and behavior.

Our viral vector services provide researchers with powerful tools for studying the structure and function of neural circuits, advancing our understanding of brain function and the development of novel therapies for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

FAQs

Q: What is the typical turnaround time for viral vector production?

A: The turnaround time for viral vector production varies depending on the complexity of the project. Standard production typically takes 6-8 weeks, including vector design, cloning, packaging, and quality control. For customized vectors, the timeline may be extended slightly. We strive to provide clear timelines and regular updates throughout the production process to keep you informed.

Q: What options do you offer for large-scale production of viral vectors?

A: We offer scalable production options to meet the needs of larger research projects. Our facilities are equipped to produce viral vectors in various quantities, from small research-grade batches to large-scale preparations. We use state-of-the-art production and purification technologies to ensure high yield and quality, supporting extensive preclinical studies and larger experimental frameworks.

Q: How do I get started with your viral vector services?

A: Getting started is simple. Contact our team with details about your research project and specific needs. We will arrange an initial consultation to discuss your goals and requirements in detail. Following this, we will provide a customized proposal outlining the scope of work, timelines, and costs. Once you approve the proposal, we will initiate the production process and keep you informed at each stage.

Q: How do you ensure the quality and safety of your viral vectors?

A: Quality and safety are our top priorities. Our viral vectors undergo rigorous quality control tests, including titration, purity, and sterility assessments. We also perform extensive in vitro and in vivo functional testing to ensure their efficacy and safety. Our production processes adhere to strict regulatory guidelines, ensuring that our viral vectors meet the highest standards for research use.

Scientific Resources

Comparison of Various Viral Vectors in the Central Nervous System

Neural Circuits and Systems

Reference

1. Wang, Y.; et al. Viral vectors as a novel tool for clinical and neuropsychiatric research applications. General psychiatry. 2018, 31(2).

For Research Use Only. Not For Clinical Use.