An AAV vector is a tool used in gene therapy to deliver genetic material into cells. It is derived from Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV), a small virus that is not known to cause disease in humans. AAV vectors can carry therapeutic genes to target cells, helping to treat various genetic disorders by correcting or replacing faulty genes. These vectors are popular in research and clinical applications because they can efficiently transduce a wide range of cell types and have a low risk of causing an immune response. Their ability to integrate into the host genome allows for long-term expression of the delivered genes, making them valuable for potential treatments.