Abstract: Objective To study CTLA4Ig gene expressed in dermal papilla cells and to provide evidence for immune tolerance after dermal papilla cells transplantation. Methods CTLA4Ig cDNA was transferred into dermal papilla cells by recombinant adenovirus vector, and the dermal papilla cells containing CTLA4Ig gene were transplanted into mice skin. The target gene expression was detected by histological and immunohistochemistry technique. Results CTLA4Ig protein was expressed in plasma 6 hours after gene transfection and increased gradually. When the transferred papilla cells were transplanted into mice skin the gene began to express in 24 hours and lasted for 2 weeks. No rejection was observed. Conclusion Dermal papilla cells containing CTLA4Ig gene can survive in vitro and in vivo and express CTLA4Ig for a long time.

Key words: Gene transfer, Hair follicle, CTLA4Ig, Genetic vectors