Alexandra Seraffin

Mrs. Alexandra Seraffin


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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Journal Article
Open access
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JBJustine Basset
Justine Basset
ASAlexandra Seraffin
Alexandra Seraffin
JRJulien Ratelade
Julien Ratelade
YDYohann Dickx
Yohann Dickx
TBTomasz Benedyk
Tomasz Benedyk
AEAlberto L. Epstein
Alberto L. Epstein
Non-replicative herpes simplex virus type 1 (nrHSV-1) vectors are promising delivery vehicles for gene therapy due to their large DNA payload capacity and ability to infect a broad range of cell types. However, the genomic deletions made to generate such nrHSV-1 vectors can result in undersized genomes that trigger genomic instability—including rearrangements and size extensions—compromising their therapeutic potential. This study investigates the stabilization of undersized nrHSV-1 vectors through the insertion of stuffer DNA segments. We assess genomic stability, productivity, toxicity, and transgene expression in vitro and in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that nrHSV-1 can accommodate variations in genome size up to 5–6% and highlight the importance of maintaining a genome size close to that of the wild-type HSV-1 for enhanced genomic stability and sustained transgene expression without adverse effects. This strategy offers a promising approach for optimizing nrHSV-1 vectors for clinical applications.