Some Aim to Fix the Genes Themselves
1The Wall Street Journal, New York, New York, USA.
Abstract:
[The following article appeared in The Wall Street Journal, issue of May 6, 1998.] Ever since scientists learned over a decade ago that cancer is the result of defective genes, they have dreamed of shutting down tumor growth simply by replacing the bad genes with good ones. Researchers at two biotech companies and a pharmaceutical giant believe they are close to making that dream come true, at least for some patients. In two weeks, scientists will present results of several studies showing, for the first time, that cancer growth in severely sick patients can be stalled through an innovative method of repairing damaged genes. If the initial studies of this "cancer gene therapy" in about a hundred patients hold up, one of the companies, closely held Introgen Therapeutics Inc. of Austin, Texas, believes its technique may be available to doctors in two years.
Insights
Gene therapy shows promise in halting cancer growth by repairing defective genes. This innovative approach may be available to patients within two years, offering new hope for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer is understood as a disease caused by genetic mutations.
- The concept of correcting these genetic defects to treat cancer has been a long-standing goal in medical research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the initial findings of a novel gene therapy technique aimed at stalling tumor growth.
- To evaluate the efficacy of repairing damaged genes in patients with advanced cancer.
Main Methods:
- The study involves "cancer gene therapy," an innovative method for repairing damaged genes.
- Initial trials were conducted on approximately one hundred severely ill patients.
Main Results:
- Early results indicate that cancer growth can be stalled in patients undergoing this gene therapy.
- The findings represent a significant step forward in demonstrating the potential of gene repair for cancer treatment.
Conclusions:
- Cancer gene therapy shows potential for stalling tumor progression in severely ill patients.
- If further studies confirm these results, the technique could be clinically available in approximately two years.
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