GENE-THERAPY FOR VASCULAR DISEASES

Gene transfer by virus- and liposome-mediated vectors has potential fo r treating genetic diseases, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In th is article, we discuss the general principle and techniques for gene t ransfer and the specific issues facing therapy for vascular diseases. We also propose a strategy for using virus-mediated gene transfer to r estore the vasoprotective function of the vascular wall, thereby preve nting vascular thrombosis. Experimental data from ongoing work in our laboratories are presented to illustrate the importance of this approa ch in vascular gene transfer therapy.