Vectors and methods for tissue specific synthesis of protein in eggs of transgenic hens

Abstract

Vectors and methods are provided for introducing genetic material into cells of a chicken or other avian species. More particularly, vectors and methods are provided for transferring a transgene to an embryonic chicken cell, so as to create a transgenic hen wherein the transgene is expressed in the hen's oviduct and the transgene product is secreted in the hen's eggs and/or those of her offspring. In a preferred embodiment, the transgene product is secreted in the egg white.

1 . A retroviral vector containing the ovalbumin promoter as defined by positions 284-1619 of SEQ ID NO: 1. 
     
     
         2 . The retroviral vector of  claim 1 , comprising a signal sequence. 
     
     
         3 . The retroviral vector of  claim 2 , comprising a transcription termination signal. 
     
     
         4 . A modified hygromycin B phototransferase gene lacking 3′ control elements except a stop codon.