Abstract: Described herein are methods of improving the efficiency of gene transfer for a wide range of applications. Specifically provided are methods of increasing expression of an exogenous gene in a cell by contacting the cell with a vector comprising the exogenous gene and contacting the cell with a proteasome inhibitor, a lysosomal protease inhibitor and/or a microtubule inhibitor. Also provided are methods of delivering an antigen delivery vector to a cell or a subject. Provided are antigen delivery systems and kits comprising an antigen delivery vector and a proteasome inhibitor, a lysosomal protease and/or a microtuhulc inhibitor.

Abstract: Provided herein are modified phage surface polypeptides, phages with modified surface polypeptides, nucleic acids that encode the modified surface polypeptides, and related vectors and phages comprising the vectors. The provided phage surface polypeptides optionally comprise one or more modifications, including, for example, one or more modifications to enhance targeting to an antigen-presenting cell and one or more modifications that destabilize a viral capsid. Further provided herein are methods of making a lambda phage with a modified surface polypeptide and methods of making a lambda phage with a plurality of modified surface polypeptides. Also provided herein are antigen delivery systems comprising the modified phages of the invention and methods of promoting an antigenic response in a subject by administering to the subject the antigen delivery system of the invention, alone or in combination with other immunization modalities.