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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Generating Recombinant Avian Herpesvirus Vectors with CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing
Published on: January 7, 2019
HSV as a vector in vaccine development and gene therapy.
Peggy Marconi1, Rafaela Argnani, Alberto L Epstein
1Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine-Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, Ferrara, 44100, Italy. mcy@unife.it
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) genetics knowledge enables development of HSV-1 vectors for gene therapy, cancer treatment, and disease prophylaxis. These vectors offer targeted delivery and expression for various healthcare applications.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Virology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a significant human pathogen with a dual lytic and latent infection cycle.
- Extensive knowledge of HSV genetics and molecular biology has paved the way for novel therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the design, construction, and applications of HSV-1-based vectors.
- To discuss the potential and limitations of different HSV-1 vector classes for healthcare.
Main Methods:
- Classification of HSV-1 vectors into three main types: replication-competent attenuated, replication-incompetent recombinant, and defective helper-dependent (amplicons).
- Review of current literature on HSV-1 vector development and applications.
Main Results:
- HSV-1 vectors show promise for delivering genes to the nervous system, targeting cancer cells, and preventing infections.
- Three distinct classes of HSV-1 vectors have been developed, each with unique characteristics.
Conclusions:
- HSV-1-based vectors represent a versatile platform for diverse biomedical applications.
- Further research is needed to overcome current limitations and fully realize the therapeutic potential of these vectors.
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