SAFE RETROVIRAL VECTORS, THEIR PRODUCTION AND USE

摘要

Safe retroviral vectors and corresponding packaging cell lines are provided for the treatment of disease caused by related retroviruses. The packaged vectors lack the enzymes to convert genomic RNA to DNA and/or to integrate into the host cell genome. Thus, the vectors are only active in cells where these enzymes are present, i.e., in cells already infected with a retrovirus. In this manner, selective targeting of previously infected cells is achieved. After superinfecting such cells, genes carried by the vectors effect killing of the host cell or inhibit replication of retrovirus production therefrom.