A viral vector is a modified virus used as a vehicle to carry new or corrected genes into cells. Scientists remove the virus's harmful parts and replace them with the therapeutic genes. These modified viruses act as delivery vehicles, entering the cells and inserting the desired genes. The aim is to enavle the cells produce proteins correctly or fix genetic defects without causing disease.
This entry was provided by the doctoral students of the GetRADI collaborative network. GetRADI is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.