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Somatic gene therapy in the cardiovascular system.
1Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Division Angiology, University Hospital, Bern, 3010 Switzerland. iris.baumgartner@insel.ch
Annual Review of Physiology
|February 22, 2001
Summary
Gene therapy using vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) shows promise for improving blood vessel formation in arterial insufficiency and preventing restenosis after angioplasty. Further research is needed to overcome current knowledge gaps and challenges.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Gene Therapy
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for blood vessel development and function.
- Therapeutic angiogenesis aims to stimulate new blood vessel growth to treat ischemic diseases.
- Gene transfer offers a method to deliver therapeutic genes like VEGF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review gene therapy approaches using plasmid DNA encoding VEGF165 for vascular modulation.
- To focus on strategies for augmenting collateral circulation and promoting re-endothelialization.
- To discuss the significance of VEGF and identify future research challenges.
Main Methods:
- Review of intra-arterial and intramuscular/intramyocardial gene transfer of VEGF165.
- Analysis of studies focusing on therapeutic angiogenesis and restenosis prevention.
- Examination of the developmental and postnatal roles of VEGF.
Main Results:
- Plasmid DNA encoding VEGF165 is a key tool for modulating endothelial cells.
- Gene transfer strategies have been investigated in clinical settings for arterial insufficiency and post-angioplasty restenosis.
- VEGF plays a vital role in both developmental and postnatal vascularization.
Conclusions:
- Gene therapy with VEGF165 holds potential for treating vascular diseases.
- Further research is required to address limitations and challenges in clinical application.
- Optimizing gene delivery and understanding VEGF's complex roles are critical for future success.