Retroviral Vectors for Gene Transfer

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONRetroviral vectors from the γ-retrovirus genus were the first retroviral vectors to be developed. They have been called oncoretroviral vectors or simple retroviral vectors because of their derivation from oncogenic retroviruses having a simple gag-pol-env genome structure. Later additions to the retroviral vector family include the lentiviral and foamy viral vectors derived from more complex retroviruses that contain multiple accessory genes in addition to the standard gag-pol-env genes. This article describes the advantages and disadvantages of retroviral vectors for gene therapy. It also discusses the issues that must be considered in designing retroviral vectors and in choosing retroviral packaging cell lines.