Viral vector approaches to modify gene expression in the brain.
The use of viral vectors as gene transfer tools for the central nervous system has seen a significant growth in the last decade. Improvements in the safety, efficiency and specificity of vectors for clinical applications have proven to be beneficial also for basic neuroscience research. This review will discuss the viral systems currently available to neuroscientists and some of the recent achievements in the study of synaptic function, memory and drug addiction.
Papale
Alessandro
A
Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Foundation and University, Milano, Italy.
Cerovic
Milica
M
Brambilla
Riccardo
R
D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism*; D001923:Brain Chemistry / Q000235:genetics; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques / Q000639:trends*; D005822:Genetic Vectors / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000235:genetics; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000235:genetics; D014780:Viruses / Q000235:genetics*