**Genetically Engineered Bacteria in Gene Therapy — Hopes and Challenges**

Mustapha Chamekh

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/61042

#### **Abstract**

The main concern of gene therapy is to target the gene of interest to intended cell tissues for optimizing treatment efficiency. Genetically engineered bacteria have been developed as shuttle vectors for localized delivery of therapeutics. Their success depends upon their tropism to target cells and the efficiency of the engaged delivery system. Bodies of evidence clearly indicate the great potential of recombinant bacteria in gene therapy, although most of the studies were just looking for proof-of-concept rather than a ready-to-use final product. This part will provide an overview of our current understanding of bacteria-based delivery of therapeutic genes and heterolo‐ gous antigens for prophylactic strategies.

**Keywords:** Recombinant bacteria, Gene delivery, Gene therapy, Immunoprophy‐ laxy
