Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols: 76 (Methods in Molecular Medicine, 76)

Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols consists of 30 ch- ters detailing the use of herpes viruses, adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses, simple and complex retroviruses, including lentiviruses, and other virus systems for vector development and gene transfer. Chapter cont- butions provide perspective in the use of viral vectors for applications in the brain and in the central nervous system. Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols contains step-by-step methods for successful rep- cation of experimental procedures, and should prove useful for both experienced investigators and newcomers in the field, including those beginning graduate study or undergoing postdoctoral training. The "Notes" section contained in each chapter provides valuable troublesho- ing guides to help develop working protocols for your laboratory. With Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols, it has been my intent to develop a comprehensive collection of modern molecular methods for the construction, development, and use of viral vectors for gene transfer and gene therapy. I would like to thank the many chapter authors for their contributions. They are all experts in various aspects of viral vectors, and I appreciate their efforts and hard work in developing comprehensive chapters. As editor, it has been a privilege to preview the development of Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols, and to acquire insight into the various methodological approaches from the many different contri- tors.

The promise of gene therapy can be realized only if workable vectors can be found to deliver therapeutic genes. In Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols, leading researchers from academia and biotechnology describe proven molecular methods for the construction, development, and use of virus vectors for gene transfer and gene therapy. Offering detailed step-by-step instructions to ensure successful results, these experts detail the use of herpes viruses, adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses, simple and complex retroviruses, including lentiviruses, and other virus systems for vector development and gene transfer. Additional chapters demonstrate the use of virus vectors in the brain and central nervous system. Each protocol includes a discussion of the principles involved, numerous charts and tables, ample references, and notes on possible problems, troubleshooting, and alternative procedures.
Comprehensive and highly practical, Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy: Methods and Protocols provides not only researchers with the basic tools needed to design targeted gene delivery vectors, but also clinicians with an understanding of how to apply viral vectors to the treatment of genetic disorders.