Genetic modification of viruses has long been used as a strategy to treat and prevent different types of diseases. Specifically, it consists of exploiting certain characteristics of viruses that make them suitable tools for making vaccines or for recognizing and attacking specific cells (e.g., tumor cells). This requires space within the viral genome to load the necessary genetic tools without compromising the survival of the virus or affecting the capabilities that are to be exploited. Since the viral genome is very compact, being able to genetically modify it effectively is a major genetic engineering challenge.
This article was originally published on MedicalXpress.com
