Question

A limitation of retrovirus-mediated gene transfer is that ________.

Answer 1

Retrovirus integrate DNA randomly in the genome. A retrovirus is type of virus that carries RNA as their form genetic material. Retrovirus are used as vectors in transfer of genetic material in a host cell. The result of that gene transfer is called chimera. The process of insertion of their genome in to the host genome is called reverse transcription. The process is catalyze by an enzyme called reverse transcriptase.

Answer 2

The answer is Retroviruses integrate DNA randomly in the genome. While retroviruses integrate their DNA permanently in their host genome, hence a good tool for gene therapy, its risk of inserting DNA at an unintended location on target genome can cause insertional mutagenesis. This mutation can cause activation of oncogenes hence lead to tumor growth.