Gene therapy basics · USMLE Step 1

Why is immune response a major concern in gene therapy using viral vectors?

  1. Because viral vectors are unable to enter human cells
  2. Because pre-existing immunity may neutralize the vector or cause inflammation
  3. Because the immune response actually boosts gene expression
  4. Because immune reactions never occur with viral vectors
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Correct answer: Because pre-existing immunity may neutralize the vector or cause inflammation

The immune system may recognize viral vectors as foreign and neutralize them or mount inflammatory responses, reducing efficacy and raising safety concerns — a key challenge in clinical gene therapy.

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