Tg(ITGAM-TK)620Zbz

The human ITGAM promoter drives expression of the Herpes Simplex Virus thymidine kinse gene. All macrophage-containing organs, including spleen, lung and brain, showed sustained expression of the HSVTK transgene. Transgene expression within the CNS was present in microglial cells but not in astrocytes. Administration of gancyclovir for 5-6 days results in the ablation of ITGAM-expressing cells. Line 618 was also created. (J:96037)