Viral vectors are tools commonly used in genetic engineering to deliver genetic material into cells. They exploit the natural ability of viruses to infect and introduce their DNA or RNA into host cells.
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Viral vectors can be derived from various viruses, including adenoviruses, retroviruses, and lentiviruses.
Safety modifications are made to viral vectors to prevent them from causing disease.
Viral vectors can be used for gene therapy, where they deliver therapeutic genes to correct genetic disorders.
They are also utilized in vaccine development, such as the production of COVID-19 vaccines.
The efficiency of viral vectors in delivering genes makes them crucial tools in molecular biology and biotechnology.