Table 1.
Properties of viruses used for gene delivery
| Vector | Packaging capacity | Genetic material | Genome size (kb) | Diameter(nm) | Host range | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retrovirus | 8 kb | Linear single stranded RNA | 7–11 | 100–145 | Constricted, dividing cells only | Long term expression
Genome integration |
| Adeno-associated virus | 4.7 kb | Linear single stranded DNA | 4.7 | 20–22 | Extensive, both non-dividing and dividing cells | Genome integration
Long term expression Inefficient large scale production |
| Adenovirus | 8–9 kb | Linear double stranded DNA | 36 | 80–100 | Extensive, both non-dividing and dividing cells | Transient expression
Strong immunogenicity |
| Herpes virus | 30 kb | Linear double stranded DNA | 152 | 200 | Extensive | Long term expression
Low toxicity Latent infection |
| Lenitvirus | 8 kb | Linear double stranded DNA | 7–11 | 80–100 | Extensive | Genome integration
Long term expression Inefficient production Safety concerns |