NATO ASI Series, Series H: Cell Biology - 105: Gene Therapy

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Gene therapy has generated significant expectations, promising to revolutionize clinical and molecular medicine by potentially correcting various human diseases, including inherited disorders, cancer, and AIDS, through successful gene sequence introduction in somatic cells. The proceedings from the first ASI on Gene Therapy, held from August 17-28, 1997, in Spetsai, Greece, summarize recent advancements in the field, presented by internationally recognized experts. Their contributions, organized as independent chapters, provide comprehensive reviews on topics such as the influence of chromatin structure on gene expression, mechanisms of gene expression, epigenetic elements, and gene delivery systems, including viral and non-viral vectors. Additionally, the proceedings cover animal models of human diseases, inducible regulatory systems, and ongoing clinical trials for cancer, AIDS, and monogenic disorders. Gene therapy represents a logical progression in human health management, offering a potential low-cost and efficient treatment option. However, to realize its full potential, critical technological advancements are necessary, including the development of safe and efficient vectors, targeted cell type delivery, and regulation of transgene expression levels.