Research: DNA encoding all the virus proteins except its RT enzyme and a second plasmid encoding IFgamma protected some cats. The FIV 5' promoter gave better protection but fewer Tc prescurors than the standard cytomegalovirus immediate early promoter (see herpes lecture) (ref Fynn et al., Factors/FIV/DNA vaccination, in Vaccine 2000, 18, 1118-32).

FIV shows promise as a vector for somatic gene therapy to correct cystic fibrosis in the airways (ref Wang et al., J Clin Invest, 1999, 104, R55-62).