Viral vectors are tools used in gene therapy to deliver genetic material into cells. They are derived from viruses that have been modified to remove their ability to cause disease. Instead, these vectors carry therapeutic genes that can help treat various conditions, such as genetic disorders or certain types of cancer. These vectors can efficiently enter cells and integrate the new genetic material into the host's DNA. Common types of viral vectors include adenoviruses, lentiviruses, and adeno-associated viruses. Researchers use these vectors to study gene function and develop new treatments, making them essential in modern biomedical research.