Packaging cells for avian leukosis virus-based vectors with various host ranges

Abstract

Using our previously described Haydée semipackaging cell line (F. L. Cosset, C. Legras, Y. Chebloune, P. Savatier, P. Thoraval, J. L. Thomas, J. Samarut, V. M. Nigon, and G. Verdier, J. Virol. 64:1070-1078, 1990) which produces avian leukosis virus gag and pol proteins, we have constructed packaging cells with subgroups B, C, and E envelope specificities. This allows us to produce helper-free avian leukosis virus particles carrying the lacZ reporter gene and the A, B, C, or E subgroup specificities. Titers of the recombinant lacZ virus are shown to be dependent upon the type of the env subgroup and the target avian cell.