However, a variety of issues have needed serious attention first. Some primary questions in developing and applying gene therapy center on specificity of target cells, stability of expression, and safety of the vectors chosen and of the means of introducing the vectors. Assessment of these questions has been difficult in many systems. A.N. Mhatre are using green fluorescent protein as a reporter of gene transfer and expression in their experimental system. Compare this approach to other types of reporter systems.
Many different viruses are under consideration for use as vectors.
Summarize their work and compare the efficacy of using HSV versus AAV for in vivo gene therapy. Other potential viral vectors include retroviruses, adenoviruses, and even some picornaviruses, such as polio and hepatitis A. Nonviral delivery systems are also under development, including liposomes, DNA conjugates, and the gene gun. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of some of the different viral and nonviral delivery systems. In your analysis consider specificity of targeted cells, stability and level of gene expression, safety of use and possible adverse reactions, and the potential for medical and public acceptance. The development of antiviral compounds lags way behind the development of compounds to combat a range of microbes, especially bacteria.