Vírusvektorar

Vírusvektorar are agents used in molecular biology and genetic engineering to introduce foreign genetic material into target cells. These vectors are typically derived from viruses that have been modified to remove their disease-causing genes. This modification renders the virus replication-deficient, ensuring it can deliver its genetic payload without causing infection or harm to the host. The modified viral genome is then engineered to carry the desired gene of interest.

Once inside a target cell, the viral vector integrates or expresses the foreign genetic material, allowing for gene therapy, vaccine development, or the study of gene function. Common examples of viruses used as vectors include adenoviruses, retroviruses, lentiviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs). Each type of viral vector has its own advantages and disadvantages regarding packaging capacity, transduction efficiency, immunogenicity, and the type of cells it can infect.

The selection of an appropriate viral vector depends on the specific application. For instance, lentiviral vectors are often used for stable integration into the host genome, making them suitable for long-term gene expression. Adenoviruses are known for their high transduction efficiency in various cell types but typically lead to transient gene expression. The development and application of viral vectors are crucial tools in modern biomedical research and therapeutic strategies.