Does the shRNA Core Facility provide the packaging/helper plasmids?
Yes! We have acquired two second generation packaging plasmids, pMD2.G (VSV G) and psPAX2 (GAG). Both plasmids are ideal for lentivirus production from the pGIPZ vector and are available for purchase from the shRNA Core Facility (priced the same as shRNA constructs); first and third generation, and other packaging plasmids will result in low viral titer or inability to produce virus; The pGIPZ vector is tat dependant, so you must use a packaging system that expresses the tat gene. Please note that both packaging plasmids are supplied in DH5a E.coli and are Ampicillin only resistant. If you would like to receive the above mentioned, please visit the “Request shRNA Clones” page on this site to fill out and submit the online “service request form” and we will be happy to prepare it for you in the format of your choosing. note: requesting packaging plasmids does not require accession numbers or V2L ID’s; please leave those sections of the request form blank.
