Virusvektorer

Virusvektorer, also known as viral vectors, are tools used in molecular biology and gene therapy. They are derived from viruses that have been modified to deliver genetic material into cells. The natural ability of viruses to infect cells and introduce their genetic code makes them ideal candidates for this purpose.

The process typically involves removing the disease-causing genes from a virus and replacing them with a desired gene. This engineered virus, now a vector, can then be used to infect target cells, delivering the new gene. Once inside the cell, the new gene can be expressed, leading to a therapeutic effect or a change in cellular function.

Various types of viruses are used as vectors, including adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), lentiviruses, and retroviruses. The choice of vector depends on factors such as the type of cell to be targeted, the size of the gene to be delivered, and the desired duration of gene expression.

Viral vectors have found applications in gene therapy for treating genetic disorders, infectious diseases, and cancer. They are also used in research to study gene function and in the development of vaccines. While promising, the use of viral vectors also presents challenges, including potential immune responses to the vector and the risk of insertional mutagenesis with some types of vectors. Ongoing research aims to improve the safety and efficacy of viral vector technology.