In vivo gene transfer to salivary glands

Considerable progress has occurred recently in transferring foreign genes to different tissues in vivo. Gene transfer to salivary glands has mirrored progress in the general field. Most salivary studies have utilized replication-deficient, recombinant adenoviruses as gene transfer vectors in rat models. These vectors are able to transduce almost all rat salivary epithelial cell types and lead to relatively high levels of transgene expression. Additionally, successful, though quite modest, gene transfer to salivary glands has been achieved with retroviral vectors and with different plasmid conjugates (liposomes; nonrecombinant adenoviruses). Salivary gland gene transfer has been used for two potential clinical goals: (i) the repair of hypofunctional gland parenchyma, and (ii) the production of secretory transgene products for either systemic or upper gastrointestinal tract pharmaceutical use. Gene transfer can also be used as a powerful tool to alter cellular phenotype in vivo and probe cell biological questions. The current spectrum of studies demonstrates the potential broad and profound influence gene transfer can make on salivary physiology and pathophysiology.