adeno-associated virus (AAV)

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a small, naturally occurring virus that infects humans and other primates without causing illness. Scientists have repurposed AAV as a tool in gene therapy because it can deliver genetic material into cells safely and efficiently. It works by inserting specific genes into the body's cells to treat genetic disorders or improve health. AAVs are considered safe because they rarely cause disease and tend to provoke minimal immune responses. They are widely used in research and clinical therapies to help correct or replace faulty genes, offering promising potential for treating various genetic conditions.