Preparation of simian foamy virus type-1 vectors

Foamy viruses (FVs) are nonpathogenic retroviruses that offer opportunities for efficient and safe gene transfer in various cell types from different species. These viruses have unique replication mechanisms that are distinct from other retroviruses, which may give an advantage to FV-mediated gene transfer. This protocol describes a method for simian foamy virus type-1 (SFV-1) vector preparation and concentration. A transient transfection of vector and packaging constructs allows generation of the SFV-1 vector with titers of 10(7)/mL. The vectors can be further concentrated by 100-200-fold without significant loss of vector titer.