Abstract: A tool for the isolation of c-kit expressing cells is provided. This tool consists of a c-kit plasmid targeting vector which is capable of integrating into the wild type c-kit allele and encodes a chimeric fluorescent protein comprising a nucleolar localization signal such as, TCOF-12, RLP313, RPS254 or Fxr2h5. The construct generates a condensed, bright, fluorescent signal that can be localized in living tissue and after dissociation. The construct allows visualization using confocal microscopy and allows automated cell sorting of the dissociated cells using amongst others flow cytometry.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tool for the isolation of c-kit expressing cells. This tool consists of a c-kit plasmid targeting vector which is capable of integrating into the wild type c-kit allele and encodes a chimeric fluorescent protein comprising a nucleolar localisation signal such as, TCOF-12, RLP313, RPS254 or Fxr2h5.. Said construct generates a condensed, bright, fluorescent signal that can be localised in living tissue and after dissociation. The construct allows visualisation using confocal microscopy and allows automated cell sorting of the dissociated cells using amongst others flow cytometry.