A sensitive, real-time, RNA-specific PCR method for the detection of recombinant AAV-CFTR vector expression

Following adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated transduction, cellular RNA preparations can be contaminated with AAV single-stranded DNA. The single-stranded DNA genome of recombinant AAV vectors can serve as an efficient, but undesirable, template for traditional reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods. Consequently, recombinant AAV gene therapy presents a unique challenge to the design of sensitive and reliable methods to detect vector-derived mRNA. Several methods have been proposed to reduce the presence of single- and double-stranded vector DNA without compromising RNA specificity. For example, DNase I, although widely used, can be ineffective at completely removing the AAV single-stranded DNA genome. We have developed a sensitive real-time RNA-Specific reverse transcriptase PCR (RS-PCR) method that is independent of DNase I treatment. The RS-PCR method relies on the generation of a first-strand cDNA template using a primer with a linker sequence, X, at the 5'- end such that synthesis of second-strand cDNA incorporates the X-linker sequence into the cDNA template. The RS-PCR then utilizes forward and reverse primers targeting AAV vector sequence and the X-primer site, respectively, while a vector-specific Taqman probe makes sensitive real-time detection possible. We present data to validate the sensitivity and RNA specificity of the RS-PCR method and propose two unique endogenous control strategies by monitoring expression of both beta-glucuronidase and endogenous cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Finally, we demonstrate the utility of this new RS-PCR method in detecting recombinant AAV-CFTR expression, including, an in vitro transduction assay and methods to support both preclinical and clinical trials.