ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the basic features of adenovirus molecular biology in relation with its comprehensive utilization as a vector for gene delivery. Adenoviruses are widespread in nature and nearly 100 Ads have been identified from man to bird. Adenoviruses are small, but complex, non enveloped DNA viruses with an icosahedric symmetry. The adenovirus genome can be functionally divided into early and late transcription units, depending on their timely expression with regard to viral DNA replication. Many preclinical studies have demonstrated the potential of first generation recombinant adenoviruses for gene transfer in various animal models. The transient nature of transgene expression following adenovirus-mediated gene transfer (AMGT) has been mainly documented in the lung and the liver. Intrinsic limitations of El-deleted vectors have emerged during the course of these studies and have somehow tempered the initial enthusiasm of the scientific community with regard to AMGT.
