What does "custom" mean?
We understand using these viral vectors successfully for neuroscience applications may require higher than average titers or purity. Our goal is for your experiment to work.
You may request any expression construct with the AAV capsid of your choice (even a custom AAV capsid). You may also request specific titer or purity requirements. We will adjust our protocol to achieve your end needs.
Please note, modifications from our standard protocol will be charged, at cost, as a “custom work” charge on your invoice. Support from the BRAIN Initiative allows us to keep these custom preps affordable.
If I am sending my own DNA, what purification method should I use?
Please visit the “DNA Prep Guide” tab for more information on our DNA growth protocol.
What are the DNA requirements? If I am sending DNA, what concentration should it be and how much do I send?
DNA should be prepped with an endo-toxin-free DNA extraction.
QC should include full length sequencing to confirm intact 5’ and 3’ ITRs, a pure DNA population, and the complete presence of all expected features.
For more information on sending DNA please visit our DNA Prep Guide tab
How much does a virus prep cost and what is the shipping charge?
For information on pricing, please visit the pricing tab located under services.
How do I pay for my order? Can I pay using a credit card?
We are not currently accepting credit card payments on our new ordering platform, but this feature is coming soon! Please be sure to upload a valid Purchase Order to your account, or select an existing Purchase Order before placing a new virus order. s
How long after placing my order should I expect to receive it?
The average turnaround time will vary based on your specific request, but generally you should expect to receive your order in about 6 weeks for domestic orders.
When will my order be ready?
You can check the status of you order at any time by logging into your account.
How will I be alerted about status updates? for my order?
We will contact you via email for any specific order updates or irregularities requiring your attention.
How do I find the ITR-ITR length for my AAV expression construct?
Using software such as snapgene, highlight the region of your plasmid sequence from the 5’ ITR through the 3’ ITR, including your gene of interest and both ITRs.
Can I send an addgene stab directly to you?
To comply with MTA requirements, you must order your DNA and sign the necessary MTAs via Addgene. The stab may then be sent to NeuroTools for DNA prep.
What QC tests are completed for viral vector preparations?
AAV= qPCR for GC/ml is standard. Protein gels, functional titers, or full:empty determination available at additional charge.
HSV= functional titer by FACS or qPCR.
Rabies= functional titer by FACS or qPCR. Protein gels available upon request at an additional charge.
Lenti= functional titer by FACS or qRT-PCR.
Do you offer cloning?
Yes, our standard cloning charge is $1024. However, if your clone is particularly complicated or requires greater than 10 hours of total active time to create, then additional charges for custom lab work will be added to the price. Additionally, the cost of materials such as PCR primers, stabs, or synthesized DNA that are needed to create your clone will be added to the price.
What is the buffer i can aliquot my virus to so i can freeze it? Can I inject it using PBS?
Recipe for our storage buffer:
5M NaCl,
D-sorbitol,
PBS
Our storage buffer is tested for multiple freeze thaws, but for immediate use you can use PBS. You can also request a storage buffer aliquot while ordering preps, for long term storage of freeze and thaw.