Towards efficient cell targeting by recombinant retroviruses.

Efficient human gene therapy will rely on efficient gene delivery systems. To date, recombinant, engineered retroviruses are the most widely used vectors for stable clinical gene transfer. However, this technology still suffers from a number of drawbacks that limit its application. The ability to target cells of therapeutic interest, in particular, would improve both the efficiency and the safety of retroviral vectors. It might also allow the development of new animal models of human diseases and probably extend the scope of gene therapy itself.