ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of research to date, an assessment of limitations, and forecasts potential applications of gene therapy in the cardiovascular system. The fact that peripheral vascular disease can be treated with trace amounts of vascular endothelial growth factor has been exploited by using a gene-therapy vector which has a favourable safety profile. The ultimate goal of gene therapy is to develop recombinant vectors that are both safe and effective. Gene therapy could therefore be focused upon specific vascular segments, not only for the treatment of local disease but also for distribution to the rest of the body via the circulatory system. The clinical implementation of coronary gene therapy is contingent not only upon highly efficient gene transfer vectors, but also upon advanced catheter-based delivery devices capable of safe but effective delivery. Gene therapy for the prevention of coronary restenosis is a conceptually appealing application of gene therapy.
