Vector-based antiviral therapy

Abstract

Viral and non-viral vector-based gene transfer and RNA-based inhibition are not only essential for basic molecular research in virology but can be developed into a valuable addition of traditional drug therapy. The efficiency of RNAi has largely supplant brought other nucleic acid based drugs out of focus, although the central problem remains efficient and long-term delivery of these novel drugs. Expansion of virus-specific T-cells and (re)targeting of immune cells to virus infected cells are further promising ways to enhance antiviral defence. Vaccination strategies based on DNA as well as on vectors like recombinant modified vaccinia virus have reached early clinical stages.