Abstract
Introduction: Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a target of gene therapy for renal fibrosis. The aim of this study was to establish a human HGF gene expression system that is regulated by tetracycline (Tet) in normal rat kidney tubular epithelial cells (NRK52E cells). Materials and Methods: The plasmids pTet-on, pBI-L-HGF and pTK-Hyg were transfected sequentially into NRK52E cells using Lipofectamine 2000. The expression of HGF gene was measured, and the activity of expressed HGF was detected. Results: A clone of pBI-L-HGF/NRK52E cells showing strong reaction to doxycycline (Dox) was selected using a luciferase reporter assay system. The expression of both HGF mRNA and protein was significantly higher (both p < 0.01) in the Dox group than that in the control group. Furthermore, the bioactivity of expressed HGF was confirmed in the assay. Conclusions: A Tet-regulated human HGF gene expression system in NRK52E cells has been established. This cell line may prove useful for gene therapy against renal fibrosis.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call