Described herein are compositions and methods for modifying eukaryotic cells, for example, to express a
transgene of interest and / or to produce an expanded
population of cells
ex vivo. Using the compositions and methods of the disclosure, a
population of eukaryotic cells, such as a
population of pluripotent cells (e.g., CD34+ hematopoietic stem or
progenitor cells) may be transduced to express a
gene of interest by contacting the cells with a
viral vector, such as a lentiviral vector, and a
poloxamer. Additionally, the compositions and methods described herein can be used to promote the proliferation or survival of a population of pluripotent cells (e.g., CD34+ hematopoietic stem or
progenitor cells)
ex vivo, for example, by contacting the cells with a
poloxamer. Examples of poloxamers that may be used in conjunction with the compositions and methods of the disclosure are those having a
molar mass in excess of 10,000 g / mol, as well as those having a
molar mass of polyoxypropylene subunits greater than 2,000 g / mol and / or an
ethylene oxide content of greater than 40% by
mass.