Methods for increasing the efficiency of target tissue penetration of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector in a patient are provided. In some aspects, the methods involve inhibiting the interaction of the serum protein galectin 3 binding protein (G3BP) with AAV vector. Further provided are methods for reducing tissue distribution of a virus or for neutralizing a virus harbored by an organ destined for transplant, or newly transplanted, by administering a composition comprising G3BP.
