293 cells are the standard cells for producing adenoviruses, and can be used to produce most viruses generated through the AdEasy system (e.g. all viruses produced with the AdEasy-1 vector).  293 cells can be obtained through ATCC.

        911 cells represent another cell type for producing adenoviruses (Human Gene Therapy 7:215-222, 1996).  We have found that 911 cells sometimes produce higher titers than 293 cells, though we have never had a failure with either cell type.  911 cells can be obtained through Crucell Holland B.V. , Archimedesweg 4 2333 CN Leiden  The Netherlands  tel: +31-(0)71-5248758  fax: +31-(0)71-5248702, E-mail: n.bunnik@crucell.com.

        When the gene to be expressed is larger than 7.5 kb, the AdEasy-2 vector must be used together with a cell line expressing the adenovirus E4 gene.  There have been several pubications describing 293 cells which produce the E4 protein in an inducible manner.  Additionally, we have generated a 911 derivative (911E4) which inducibly expresses the E4 protein under the control of tetR and which appears to be useful for producing viruses.  A time course documenting the speed and uniformity of the Ad E4 induction is shown (time course link).  911E4 cells can be obtained through Crucell Holland B.V. , Archimedesweg 4 2333 CN Leiden  The Netherlands  tel: +31-(0)71-5248758  fax: +31-(0)71-5248702, E-mail: n.bunnik@crucell.com.