GFP Adeno-Associated Virus ( AAV-MO7A )

The majority of AAV vectors in use today are composed of naturally occurring capsids that are easily targeted by host cell enzymes, thus affecting their overall performance. Furthermore, native AAV serotypes exhibit tissue preferences but generally have broad tropism. The GFP adeno-associated virus (AAV-MO7A) represents a complex and critical innovation in viral vector technology, specifically tailored for enhanced targeting and imaging of tumor cells. This reporter virus utilizes the structural framework of AAV serotype 2 (AAV2) but stands out through meticulous capsid engineering and modification. Central to this modification is the insertion of the peptide sequence RGDAVGV at position I587 of the AAV2 capsid. The inclusion of the RGDAVGV peptide is noteworthy because it targets integrins, which are often overexpressed on the surface of tumor cells. Integrins are integral membrane proteins that mediate cell adhesion and signal transduction, playing important roles in tumor growth and metastasis. By incorporating the RGDAVGV peptide, AAV-MO7A selectively targets these integrin-rich environments, thereby increasing its tumor-targeting efficiency and reducing off-target effects on healthy tissues.