Viral Vectors in Gene Therapy

Viral vectors are the workhorses of gene delivery and a central topic for Zambian tertiary students in biotechnology, virology, and genetic engineering. This subject provides a comparative analysis of the major viral vectors used in clinical gene therapy, including retroviruses, lentiviruses, adenoviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAV). Students will examine their genomic structures, packaging capacities, integration profiles, immunogenicity, and specific applications. The advantages and safety concerns, such as insertional mutagenesis and inflammatory responses, are critically evaluated. This advanced material aligns with degree programs in molecular biology and biotechnology in Zambia, preparing learners for examinations, laboratory research, and careers in biopharmaceutical development. Knowledge of viral vectors is crucial for contributing to the design and implementation of gene therapies, a field with growing potential to address genetic diseases and cancers in Zambia and globally.