Development of all-in-one multicistronic Tet-On lentiviral vectors for inducible co-expression of two transgenes

Inducible co-expression of multiple genes is often needed in research. Here we describe a single-vector-based Tet-On inducible system for co-expression of two transgenes. The two transgenes (DsRed1 and eGFP as model genes) and reverse tetracycline-controlled transactivator were separated by internal ribosomal entry sites and 2A sequences, and their transcription was controlled by the same tetracycline responsive element. Two novel vectors with different internal ribosomal entry sites and 2A positions on the vectors were constructed. The DsRed1 and eGFP in cells transduced with both vectors are undetectable in the absence of doxycycline and can be efficiently induced in the presence of doxycycline in vitro and in vivo. These two vectors can be useful tools when regulated co-expression of two ecotopic genes is needed.