Gene therapeutics
Article Abstract:
Methods of gene therapy, a therapy that is still in developmental stages, seek to introduce gene into the body to correct a genetic defect. A virus that has been genetically engineered to contain the gene to be transferred is often used in this procedure. However, there are a number of disadvantages to using viruses to deliver genes. Other techniques exist where genes can be directly injected into the body. There are a number of systems being developed for direct gene transfer, including the use of the cationic lipid reagent, lipofectin, to facilitate uptake and expression of genes, and the use of high-energy bombardment of particles that absorb the nucleic acid of the genes. Genes that are introduced into the body and expressed can also stimulate the immune system. This has been used to elicit an immune response against particular proteins of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS. Thus, gene transfer can be used to treat diseases, and also as a vaccine to prevent disease. Gene transfer is being developed to treat genetic diseases, especially diseases caused by a single genetic defect, such as the dystrophin gene in muscular dystrophy; the transmembrane regulatory gene in cystic fibrosis; the tyrosine hydroxylase gene in Parkinson's disease; and the high density lipoprotein receptor in hypercholesterolemia. Gene therapy can also be used to transfer substances such as hormones and growth factors. Instead of gene therapy as a one-time treatment to cure a disease, genes may be transferred as needed, just as drugs are given today. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1991
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Proselytizing with immunity
Article Abstract:
Despite the accessibility of praziquantel, statistics of schistosomiasis cases remain unchanged since the 80s. In some countries such as Senegal, schistosomiasis is an epidemic marked by a rise in severe disease and accentuated the failure of praziquantel. But an effective vaccine against schistosomiasis is possible and there are several ways to synthesize the vaccine. There is a plan to experiment the vaccine on humans and progress is reported in identifying immune effector mechanism.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1993
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Development of a preventive vaccine for Ebola virus infection in primates
Article Abstract:
Research is presented describing the development of an effective vaccine against the Ebola virus which has been tested and found successful in preventing the disease in monkeys.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2000
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