Gene therapy
-
β-Globin locus control region (LCR) sequences have been widely used for the regulated expression of the human β-globin gene in therapeutic viral vectors. In this study, we compare the expression of the human β-globin gene from either the HS2/HS3 β-globin LCR or the HS40 regulatory element from the α-globin locus in the context of foamy virus (FV) vectors for the genetic correction of β-thalassemia. ⋯ In addition, in an ex vivo assay using CD34+ cells from thalassemic patients, both vectors achieved significant human β-globin expression and restoration of the thalassemic phenotype as evidenced by enhanced erythropoiesis and decreased apoptosis. Our data suggest that FV vectors with the α-globin HS40 element can be used as alternative but equally efficient vehicles for human β-globin gene expression for the genetic correction of β-thalassemia.