Lentivirus

Lentivirus refers to a subclass of retroviruses capable of integrating genetic material into both dividing and non-dividing cells, enabling stable, long-term gene expression. Modified lentiviral vectors are widely used in gene therapy, cell therapy, and molecular biology research due to their efficient gene delivery capabilities and ability to provide durable transgene expression following integration into the host genome.

The biopharmaceutical industry employs lentiviral vectors extensively for CAR-T cell manufacturing, gene replacement therapies, and functional genomics. These vectors deliver therapeutic genes into patient cells ex vivo or directly into tissues in vivo. Lentiviral systems are engineered to remove pathogenic components while retaining delivery efficiency. Manufacturing involves strict quality control addressing vector titre, purity, replication competence, and genetic integrity. Regulatory scrutiny is high due to integration risks, requiring comprehensive safety assessments and long-term patient monitoring. Lentiviral vectors remain essential tools enabling durable gene expression, cellular engineering, and personalised therapies, particularly in oncology and rare genetic diseases.