In vivo gene transfer to salivary glands

Considerable progress has occurred recently in transferring foreign genes t o different tissues in vivo. Gene transfer to salivary glands has mirrored progress in the general field. Most salivary studies have utilized replicat ion-deficient, recombinant adenoviruses as gene transfer vectors in rat mod els, These vectors are able to transduce almost all rat salivary epithelial cell types and lead to relatively high levels of transgene expression. Add itionally, successful, though quite modest, gene transfer to salivary gland s has been achieved with retroviral vectors and with different plasmid conj ugates (liposomes: nonrecombinant adenoviruses). Salivary gland gene transf er has been used for two potential clinical goals: (i) the repair of hypofu nctional gland parenchyma, and (ii) the production of secretory transgene p roducts for either systemic or upper gastrointestinal tract pharmaceutical use. Gene transfer can also be used as a powerful tool to alter cellular ph enotype in vivo and probe cell biological questions. The current spectrum o f studies demonstrates the potential broad and profound influence gene tran sfer can make on salivary physiology and pathophysiology.