Efficient Expression of hG-CSF cDNA from an IRES-Dependent Bicistronic Vector Targeted to Mammary Gland of Transgenic Mice

Previously, we observed high level expression of goat β-casein/genomic hGH fusion gene in mammary gland of transgenic mice. To develop an expression vector to make a human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (hG-CSF) protein efficiently produced in milk of transgenic animals, we designed a new bicistronic vector using the goat β-casein/genomic hGH fusion gene as regulation sequences for expression and internal ribosome entry site (IRES) as a mediator for second gene expression. This vector was constructed by insertion of encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) IRES-dependent second gene region coupled with hG-CSF cDNA into 3' untranslated region of an intact hGH gene. By microinjcetion, four transgenic mice were generated and three of them transmitted the bicistronic vector to their progeny. (omitted)