French contributions to the advancement of gene and cell therapy have been profound and promise to be even more so in the future. The editorial team of Human Gene Therapy is pleased to devote this special issue to articles from the French scientists and physicians who comprise the Société Française de Thérapie Cellulaire et Génique (SFTCG) and to welcome SFTCG President Pierre Cordelier and Vice President Nathalie Cartier-Lacave as guest editors. (Dr. Cartier-Lacave is also currently president of the European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy [ESGCT]).
The completion of this important work at the current time is even more remarkable, given the tragic events that occurred in Paris on November 13, 2015. The grace and courage of the French biomedical research community to persevere under such circumstances has inspired us all.
