The M813 retrovirus belongs to a unique interference group and is highly fusogenic

Abstract

Retroviral vectors are powerful tools for genetic analysis of stem cells and their progenitors. They have been used both as gene vectors, to both up or down regulate gene expression - as well as mutagens, to identify genes modulating a specific phenotype. Furthermore, their importance in the clinic is currently being tested in several on-going gene therapy trials. Understanding the basic biology of retrovirus is tantamount to developing efficacious tools for the laboratory and the clinic. Here we summarize the characterization of a novel γ-retrovirus isolate from feral mice. The M813 isolate was shown to have a unique host range and belong to a novel interference group. Our analysis also revealed the highly fusogenic potential of this virus. Finally, we were able to identify the sodium myo-inositol transporter as its receptor. The unique characteristics of this viral isolate open several venues for the development of novel research tools. © 2008 Springer.