Advances with the use of bio-inspired vectors towards creation of artificial viruses.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: In recent years, there has been a great deal of interest in the development of recombinant vectors based on biological motifs with potential applications in gene therapy. Several such vectors have been genetically engineered, resulting in biomacromolecules with new properties that are not present in nature. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: This review briefly discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the current state-of-the-art gene delivery systems (viral and non-viral) and then provides an overview on the application of various biological motifs in vector development for gene delivery. Finally, it highlights some of the most advanced bio-inspired vectors that are designed to perform several self-guided functions. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: This review helps the readers get a better understanding about the history and evolution of bio-inspired fusion vectors with the potential to merge the strengths of both viral and non-viral vectors in order to create efficient, safe and cost-effective gene delivery systems. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: With the emergence of new technologies such as recombinant bio-inspired vectors, it may not take long before non-viral vectors are observed that are not just safe and tissue-specific, but even more efficient than viral vectors.