Cardiovascular gene transfer

The cardiovascular system is a promising site for gene delivery because of its large surface area and direct contact with the blood stream. Gene transfer into vascular cells by adenoviral and retroviral vectors or liposomes has been demonstrated in several cell types and animal models. These methods have been somewhat successful; however, many improvements must be made before use in humans is possible. Some of these vectors exhibit toxicity and mediate variable expression of the transferred gene. New generations of viral vectors, new lipid formulations, other gene transfer methods, and more effective delivery methods must be developed to combat these problems.