Homologous and heterologous recombination between adenovirus vector DNA and chromosomal DNA

Adenovirus vector DNA is perceived to remain as episome following gene transfer. We quantitatively and qualitatively analysed recombination between high capacity adenoviral vector (HC-AdV) and chromosomal DNA following gene transfer in vitro.

We studied homologous and heterologous recombination with a single HC-AdV carrying (i) a large genomic HPRT fragment with the HPRT CHICAGO mutation causing translational stop upon homologous recombination with the HPRT locus and (ii) a selection marker to allow for clonal selection in the event of heterologous recombination. We analysed the sequences at the junctions between vector and chromosomal DNA.

In primary cells and in cell lines, the frequency of homologous recombination ranged from 2 x 10(-5) to 1.6 x 10(-6). Heterologous recombination occurred at rates between 5.5 x 10(-3) and 1.1 x 10(-4). HC-AdV DNA integrated via the termini mostly as intact molecules. Analysis of the junction sequences indicated vector integration in a relatively random manner without an obvious preference for particular chromosomal regions, but with a preference for integration into genes. Integration into protooncogenes or tumor suppressor genes was not observed. Patchy homologies between vector termini and chromosomal DNA were found at the site of integration. Although the majority of integrations had occurred without causing mutations in the chromosomal DNA, cases of nucleotide substitutions and insertions were observed. In several cases, deletions of even relative large chromosomal regions were likely.

These results extend previous information on the integration patterns of adenovirus vector DNA and contribute to a risk-benefit assessment of adenovirus-mediated gene transfer.