Structural stability of adenovirus type 5.

Thermally induced structural changes in adenovirus type 5 (Ad) in the presence of either 2 or 10% sucrose were investigated using a variety of biophysical techniques. In solutions containing 2% sucrose, a highly cooperative transition in the structure of the virus was observed at 45 degrees C as detected by tryptophan fluorescence, derivative UV absorption spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and dynamic and static light scattering. This transition resulted in (at least partial) disassembly of the virus and a concomitant increase in the accessibility of the viral DNA to the fluorescent dye, TOTO-1.

A new scalable method for the purification of recombinant adenovirus vectors.

Recombinant adenovirus vectors continue to be the preferred vectors for many types of gene therapy. However, issues regarding production and safety as well as the development of a scalable process for these vectors remain a challenge. Additionally, any process must address the well-documented immune and toxicologic responses to these vectors.