High-throughput methods for identifying gene function using lentiviral vectors

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the efficient identification of one or more functionalities of a product encoded by a nucleic acid sequence of interest. The methods utilize the abilities to over and/or under express the product in a cell, as well as the combination of these results, to permit the identification of at least one of the product's cellular or in vivo functionality.

1 . A method of identifying a function of a gene sequence of interest in a cell type comprising
 (a) over expressing all or part of said sequence in a first population of said cell type;   (b) inhibiting expression of said sequence in a second population of said cell type;   (c) detecting changes in one or more cellular factors in said first and second populations;   (d) identifying a function of said gene sequence of interest based on the identity of, or effect on, said one or more cellular factors.