Gene transfer to keratinocytes
In keratinocyte gene therapy, the gene that will correct the disease by expressing the normal protein or enzyme is inserted and expressed in keratinocytes. Keratinocytes have significant potential, as a target cell of gene therapy, in the treatment of both systemic diseases as well as skin diseases caused by a genetic defect in keratinocytes. Although keratinocyte gene therapy is not yet being tested in clinical trials, animal models do exist where keratinocytes are being used to secrete factors such as human growth hormone and factor IX (for haemophilia) into the systemic circulation. However, the sustained and efficient delivery of factors to the bloodstream by keratinocytes expressing a transgene has not yet been accomplished. Future goals are to obtain adequate levels of the desired factors, hormones or enzymes for sustain periods of time, either in keratinocytes or in the vascular system