Adeno-associated virus
Adeno-associated virus
Adeno-associated virus (pronunciation: /əˌdiːnoʊ əˈsoʊʃieɪtɪd ˈvaɪrəs/) is a small, non-enveloped virus that infects humans and some other primate species. It is not currently known to cause disease and consequently is often used in gene therapy.
Etymology
The term "Adeno-associated virus" is derived from its discovery as a contaminant in adenovirus preparations. Despite its name, AAV is not a member of the Adenoviridae family, but belongs to the Parvoviridae family.
Structure
Adeno-associated virus is a small virus with a genome of single-stranded DNA. The virus particle consists of an icosahedral capsid and contains a single molecule of linear, single-stranded DNA.
Replication
Replication of the adeno-associated virus occurs in the nucleus of infected cells and is facilitated by co-infection with a helper virus, such as an adenovirus or a herpesvirus.
Use in Gene Therapy
Due to its ability to infect non-dividing cells and its non-pathogenic nature, adeno-associated virus is considered a promising vector for gene therapy. It has been used in clinical trials for diseases such as hemophilia and Leber's congenital amaurosis.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Adeno-associated virus
- Wikipedia's article - Adeno-associated virus
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