ABSTRACT
Helper-dependent adenoviral vectors (HDAds) that are deleted of all viral genes can efficiently transduce a wide variety of dividing and nondividing cell types to mediate high levels of transgene expression. In contrast to early generation adenoviral vectors, the lack of viral genes in HDAds results in long-term transgene expression without chronic toxicity. Moreover, deletion of viral genes permits a large cloning capacity of 37 kb. Because HDAd genomes exist in transduced cells as non-integrating episomes, the risks of germ line transmission and insertional mutagenesis are negligible. This chapter will review studies of particular significance and describe the most recent advancements in this vector technology.
