OBJECTIVETo construct a recombinant human CD59 gene containing intercellular adhesion molecule-2 promoter for high level endothelial-specific expression in xenotransplantation.

METHODSICAM-2 promotor fragment and CD59-intron 1 fragment were produced by PCR from the human blood genome, and then clone these fragments into a pcDNA3-CD59 eukaryotic expression vector which was followed by digestion with the specific restricted endonuclease (for example: EcoRI, Hind III). The ICAM-2 promoter and CD59-intron 1 fragments were identified by PCR, and sequencing. The recombinant was then transfected into pig aorta endothelial cells with Lipofection, and the expression was measured by flow cytometer.

RESULTSProducts of the sequences measured were in accord with the frames of the gene bank. The expression of the protein of this recombinant was positive.

CONCLUSIONThe CD59 recombinant gene is constructed successfully, providing a basis for transgenic research.