What is lentivirus 

Lentivirus belongs to a class of virus called retrovirus that has an RNA genome rather than DNA. To produce functional gene products, the virus also contains the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which produces cDNA from the RNA template. When a cell endocytoses a lentivirus particle, the RNA is released and reverse transcriptase produces cDNA. The DNA migrates to the nucleus, where it integrates into the host genome.

Lentivirus is capable of infecting both dividing and postmitotic cells ,it is based on the human immunodeficiency virus and has an 8-kb carrying capacity. Because the DNA integrates into the genome, lentivirus delivery leads to long-term expression. Lentiviruses are complex retroviruses encoding gag in one ORF and pro-pol in another. Production of the Gag-Pro-Pol polyprotein requires a ribosomal frameshift at the end of gag. Lentivirus particles assemble at the cell membrane and have distinctive conical cores, and the viral genome is approximately 9.3 kb in length. Lentiviruses include HIV-1 and HIV-2, SIV, caprine arthritis encephalitis virus, and visna virus.

Quality control of lentivirus technology 

Common lentiviral vector quality control testing items including appearance, identification, virus titer detection, purity, biological activity assay, replication competent lentiviruses, residual risk elements, fendogenous and adventitious agents extraneous agents, impurities, etc.