| abstract |
Methods and compositions relating to chimeric genes containing (i) a tissue-specific promoter and (ii) a hypoxia response enhancer element, both of which are operably linked to a selected gene, such as a reporter gene, therapeutic gene (e.g., bcl-2, NOS, catalase and SOD), or deleterious gene are disclosed. Expression of the selected gene is enhanced in the target tissue under hypoxic conditions, such as conditions encountered during episodes of ischemia and reperfusion. The methods and compositions may be used as therapeutics and/or diagnostics. |