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Updated: Oct 10, 2026
Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model
Published on: October 2, 2015
Gene therapy of established mesothelioma xenografts with recombinant p16INK4a adenovirus
S P Frizelle1, J B Rubins, J X Zhou
1The Department of Medicine and Research Service, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, 55417, USA.
Abstract:
The absence of expression of the p16INK4a gene product is observed in virtually all mesothelioma tumors and cell lines, whereas wild-type pRB expression is maintained. We have examined the potential therapeutic role of re-expressing the p16INK4a gene product in mice with established human mesothelioma xenografts. Experiments using Adp16 treatments in mesothelioma xenografts demonstrated prolonged survival and potential cure following treatment with p16INK4a-based gene therapy. These results demonstrate that p16INK4a gene transfer may play a therapeutic role in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Insights
Re-expressing the p16INK4a gene in mesothelioma tumors may offer a new therapeutic strategy. Gene therapy using p16INK4a demonstrated prolonged survival and potential cure in mesothelioma xenografts.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Cancer Therapy
Background:
- Mesothelioma is characterized by the absence of p16INK4a gene product expression.
- Wild-type pRB expression is maintained in mesothelioma tumors and cell lines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of re-expressing the p16INK4a gene in established human mesothelioma xenografts in mice.
Main Methods:
- Utilized adenovirus-mediated gene transfer (Adp16) to deliver the p16INK4a gene.
- Treated mice bearing human mesothelioma xenografts with Adp16.
Main Results:
- Adp16 treatment led to prolonged survival in mice with mesothelioma xenografts.
- Demonstrated a potential for cure following p16INK4a-based gene therapy.
Conclusions:
- p16INK4a gene transfer shows promise as a therapeutic approach for mesothelioma.
- Re-expression of p16INK4a may be a viable strategy for treating mesothelioma.
