Use of HSV vectors to modify the nervous system.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a natural human pathogen that efficiently infects sensory neurons to establish a life-long latent state. Recombinant replication-defective vectors, created by disruption of critical viral gene functions, nonetheless target neurons and can be used to express transgenes to alter the structure and/or function of the nervous system. Specific applications of these vectors to models of neurodegeneration (Parkinson's disease), trauma (spinal root avulsion), peripheral neuropathy and neuronal function (pain) have been published within the last year. With these applications and the clinical experience in human tumor trials with HSV vectors, the stage is set for the use of HSV-based vectors to treat neurologic disease in humans in the near future.