Shared Facilities Research

Viral Vector Core

Scientific Directors: David J. Spector, PhD and Michael F. Verderame, PhD

The Viral Vector Core provides viral vector services to the Penn State Community. The Core was founded in July 2004 and began offering contract services in July 2005. Both adenovirus and retrovirus services are provided. Dr. Spector directs the adenovirus core and Dr. Verderame directs the retrovirus core. The Core has one full time employee who has developed expertise in the broad range of technical skills required to provide efficient and competitive service. Currently, the core is housed in temporary space provided by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and shares Dr. Spector's space and equipment as well as departmental shared space and equipment. The total space requirement is about 400 sq ft, including office but excluding some major equipment. The supply budget has exceeded income in the first year of operation due to continuing developmental costs. For the next fiscal year, service will be provided on the basis that supply expenses will be covered by income.

Vector Services include:

• Adenovirus vector construction

• Adenovirus amplification, assay and purification Retrovirus vector construction

• Retrovirus vector production and assay