Toward cystic fibrosis gene therapy.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a common genetic disorder characterized by defective epithelial chloride transport and progressive lung disease. Although great strides have been made in the treatment of CF, it remains lethal, often by early adulthood. CF is one of the most extensively researched genetic diseases as a target for gene therapy development. It may also serve as an important model for gene therapy of other diseases. Preclinical and clinical research has lead to the rapid development of a variety of vectors designed to correct the basic defect in CF, including adenovirus, adeno-associated virus, and liposomes. Clinical studies have identified the host immune response and low vector efficiency as key impediments to effective CF gene therapy. Further research promises to refine vector technology and bring CF gene therapy to the bedside.