5-1.4. Viral vectors
Various kinds of viruses can be used as viral vectors, but five classes of viral vector are used in human gene therapy-
- Adenovirus
- Adeno- associated virus (AAV)
- Herpes virus
- Retrovirus
- Lentivirus
Vector |
Host cells |
Entry pathway |
Vector genome |
Transgene expression |
Uses |
Retrovirus |
Actively dividing cells |
Receptor-binding, |
Integrated |
Long term (years) |
SCID, Hyperlipedemia, solid tumors |
Lentivirus |
Dividing and non-dividing cells |
Receptor-binding, |
Episomal |
Stable |
Hematopoetic cells, muscles, |
Adeno virus |
Most cells |
CAR (Coxsackie and Adenovirus Receptor)-mediated |
Episomal |
Transient (short term for weeks) |
CNS, hepatocytes, |
Adeno- associated virus |
Most cells |
Receptor-mediated |
Episomal (90%) |
Medium to long term (year) |
lung , muscle, heart, CNS |
Herpes virus |
Most cells |
Endocytotic or membrane fusion |
Episomal |
Transient |
Suitable particularly for nervous system |
Table 5-1.4: Viral vectors and their properties.