Optimization of Large-Scale Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Production

Genetic manipulation in vivo is a critical method for mechanistically understanding gene function in disease and physiological processes. To facilitate this, embryonic transgenesis in popular animal models like mice has been developed. Compared to the longer, expensive methods of transgenesis, viral vectors, such as adeno-associated virus (AAV), have grown increasingly in popularity due to their relatively low cost and ease of production, translating to an overall greater versatility as a biological tool. In this article, we describe protocols for AAV production and purification for efficient transduction in vivo. Importantly, our method differs from others in application of a streamlined, more cost-effective approach. From this method, as many as 2 × 10¹³ genome-containing viral particles (vp), or 200 units, can be produced within 3 to 4 weeks, with a minimal cost of $1800 to $2000 for supplies and reagents and <15 hr of personnel time per week. A unit here is defined as 1 × 10¹¹ vp, our standard dose of AAV per animal, injected via tail vein. Therefore, our method provides production and purification of AAV in quantities capable of transducing up to 200 animals.