AAV5 Virus-Like Particles (Empty Capsids)

AAV5, or adeno-associated virus serotype 5, is a type of adeno-associated virus used as a gene therapy vector. AAVs are small viruses that infect humans and some other primates, but it is not known whether they cause disease. Due to their ability to deliver genetic material into cells, they are being extensively studied and used in gene therapy. AAV5 has a high affinity for liver and central nervous system cells, making it particularly useful in therapies targeting these tissues. For example, AAV5 has been used in experimental treatments for diseases such as hemophilia, where the goal is to introduce a functional version of a gene into liver cells, and for certain neurodegenerative diseases, where the goal is to deliver therapeutic genes to the brain. AAV5 virus-like particles (VLPs), also known as empty capsids, are structures derived from adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5). These particles are very similar in structure to the natural virus, but they lack viral genomic material. Therefore, they are non-infectious and unable to replicate, making them a valuable tool in a variety of scientific and medical applications. Their ability to mimic natural viruses while posing no transmission risk makes them invaluable in vaccine development, gene therapy, diagnostic and therapeutic applications.