AAV Custom Vectors and Other Services
Custom AAV Vectors
Custom AAV vector production at the UNC Vector Core is designed to support projects ranging from pilot studies to large-scale research needs. We offer flexible production options using a scalable, high‑purity suspension‑based platform.
Custom Standard Size Vectors:
The Vector Core provides custom AAV vector production in serotypes AAV1–6, 8, 9, Olig001, rAAV2Retro, and DJ. Please inquire about additional serotypes. Vectors are produced using a triple‑transfection protocol in suspension of HEK293 cells and purified by column chromatography. This serum-free, antibiotic‑free system yields higher‑purity vectors with fewer empty particles and is scalable to Wave bioreactors.
For standard-size custom preparations, a minimum of 300 µg of plasmid DNA is required (plasmid amplification services are available for an additional fee). Typical turnaround time is approximately 4–5 weeks. We guarantee a minimum total titer of 1 × 10¹¹ viral genomes, with average yields of ~1–4 × 10¹² vg/mL in a final volume of 1–1.3 mL; yield is construct‑dependent. Standard custom AAV production includes titer determination by qPCR and silver stain analysis.
For quotes, contact Vector Core.
Large Scale Custom AAV Production:
The Vector Core offers large-scale, research-grade custom AAV vector production in serotypes AAV1–6, 8, 9, Olig001, rAAV2Retro, and DJ. Please inquire about additional serotypes. Production is available at 1 L, 2 L, 5 L, 10 L, and 20 L culture volumes, with 2 L and larger preparations produced in Wave bags. Vectors are generated using a triple‑transfection protocol in suspension of HEK293 cells and purified by column chromatography. This serum‑free, antibiotic‑free system yields higher‑purity vectors with fewer empty particles and is scalable to large‑volume Wave bioreactors. Final yield is construct‑dependent, with a typical 10 L preparation yielding approximately 5 × 10¹³ to 2 × 10¹⁴ viral genomes. Minimum plasmid DNA requirements are ≥500 µg for 1 L, ≥900 µg for 2 L, and ≥2 mg for 5 L productions; plasmid amplification services are available if needed (submit 1–10 µg). Cost savings are available for larger Wave cultures of the same construct; please contact Vector Core for production volumes larger than 20 L.
Other Services:
The UNC Vector Core offers a range of ancillary services to support vector production and downstream research needs. These services include plasmid amplification, reporter gene transfections, and other custom options designed to complement standard and custom AAV workflows.
Amplification Services
If you are interested in custom vector production but do not have sufficient plasmid DNA, we provide high-quality plasmid amplification service. Our amplified plasmids are suitable for a wide range of applications, including transfection and AAV vector production.
We specialize in amplifying customer-provided plasmids under optimized conditions to ensure consistency, purity, and reliability. If you would like to use this service, please send us 1–10 µg of your plasmid DNA.
Available plasmid DNA yield options:
- < 1 mg (suitable for standard custom AAV production up to 2 L)
- 10 mg
- 15 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Supernatant / Cell Pellet Transfections
For reporter gene constructs (e.g., CMV‑GFP, CMV‑Luciferase) where purified vector is not required, the Core offers 2 L, 5 L, and 10 L transfected culture preparations.
Other Services
The Vector Core provides additional custom services to support specialized project needs and downstream applications, particularly when higher titers or nonstandard handling are required.
Available options include:
- Custom vector concentration
- Fill volumes other than the standard size
Vectors are aliquoted at 100 µL per tube by default, with alternative aliquot sizes available upon request at the time of order.
Please send plasmids via FedEx or UPS to:
UNC Vector Core
7027 Thurston Bowles Bldg.
104 Manning Dr.
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
*Please include a copy of your online order confirmation and a Sma1 restriction map with your plasmid shipment.