Viral Vectors for Delivering Gene Material into Cells and Their Application in Neurobiology (Review)

Abstract

Viral vectors are modern tools for delivering genetic material into cells. Various types of viral vectors based on retroviruses, adenoassociated and lentiviral viruses, adenoviruses, herpes simplex and poxviruses are considered in this work. Adeno-associated vector systems are presented in more detail. Their main advantages (ability to integrate a target gene into the proper site of the host genome, preventing undesirable mutations; entering both dividing and nondividing cells; a wide transduction profile; low immune response; strong and stable transgene expression) have made these vectors a widely used and universal tool for transferring genes in vitro and in vivo. Possible applications of viral vectors in neurobiology are also shown.