Ex vivo gene delivery to fetal nervous tissue used for cell replacement therapy by means of adeno-associated viruses (AAV)-based
vectors. We have shown that AAV vectorsare particularly efficient to transfer genes in human embryonic mesencephalon. New
constructs expressing protective factors will be developped to improve the survival of the transplanted cells. In collaboration with M.
Peschanski (INSERM, Paris), AAV-mediated transfer of GDNF (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) gene promoting dopaminergic
neuron survival, into the embryonic mesencephalon prior to transplantation.