Abstract

ROMANO, Catalina S  and  MERSICH, Susana Esther. Viral vectors and their relationship with biosafety in the laboratory. Acta bioquím. clín. latinoam. [online]. 2018, vol.52, n.2, pp.251-259. ISSN 0325-2957.

Viral vectors are a broad group of agents used in molecular biology and microbiology laboratories to transfer exogen nucleic acid. These labs require biosafety measures designed to protect their staff, the population and the environment that may be unintentionally exposed to hazardous organisms. This review includes general properties of known vectors, variations in biosafety levels in relation to original vector genetics and the type of insert to be cloned and expressed in a determined cell. It is also important to consider other issues such as transmission, stability and persistence to determine the vector risk group. Under adequate working conditions, containment measures, risk assays and a short description on biosecurity are included. Finally the function of Institutional Biosafety Committees is a critical element to advise on measures needed to prevent exposures and protect laboratory workers and the environment.

Keywords : Viral vectors; Biosafety; Host range; Transmission; Biosecurity; Exposures.

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