The HVJ liposome method.

Recent advancement of gene technology allows us a practical approach to gene therapy. Among various in vivo gene transfer techniques available, the HVJ liposome method is an efficient procedure which could target the glomerular cells. Using this method, HVJ-mediated cell fusion activity enables us to introduce genetic materials directly into the cytosol without degradation. In addition, cointroduction of non-histone nuclear protein, high-mobility group (HMG-1), efficiently facilitates migration of foreign DNA to the nucleus. Although there still exist some limitations, the HVJ liposome method may be applicable to the treatment of glomerular diseases as well as to analysis of the molecular aspects of renal pathophysiology.