Functional analysis of the heme oxygenase-1 gene promoter.

Basal and inducer-dependent transcription activity of the heme oxygenase-1 gene promoter can be measured using the luciferase reporter gene in transfection assays. Methods are provided in this unit for purification of plasmid DNA, transient and stable transfection of DNA into cells, and measurement of luciferase and beta-galactosidase enzyme activities using chemiluminescent-based assays. These protocols can be used to identify inducer-activated cis elements.