Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) have shown great promise for gene therapy. However, there is a lack of data determining their distribution and persistence in target tissues. To overcome this, we will develop imageable reporter genes to track AVV expression using in vivo imaging. Our reporter genes will be linked to an AAV targeted to kidney cells, previously shown to affect the function and vascularization of abnormal kidney’s. We will deliver AVV via an ultrasound guided intrarenal artery injection and use photoacoustic imaging to create 3 dimensional maps of AAV gene expression alongside longitudinal changes in vascularisation and function of the kidney.
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