Methodology of Sperm-Mediated Gene Transfer

Abstract

The capture of exogenous DNA and its transfer to eggs by sperm cells are the two key processes in SMGT. During the past two decades, the efficiency of the capture of exogenous DNA molecules by sperm cells has been increased by various approaches, such as use of liposomes, electroporation, Triton-X or DMSO-treated spermatozoa, viral vectors, and magnetic nanoparticles. Testis-mediated gene transfer (TMGT) is a novel alternative variant of SMGT used to produce transgenic animals in vivo. This chapter presents the background and features of both non-viral and viral forms of SMGT, together with TMGT, as developed in recent years. Additionally, modes of fertilisation by transgene-bearing sperm are discussed.

Keywords: Male germ cell, SMGT, TMGT, Viral vector, Liposome, Linker, Electroporation, Magnatofection, IVF, ICSI, AI, GIFT, Nature mating.