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Updated: Sep 13, 2026

Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model
09:31

Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model

Published on: October 2, 2015

Technology evaluation: gene therapy (mesothelioma), NCI

D Banerjee1

  • 1Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA. banerjed@mskcc.org

Current Opinion in Molecular Therapeutics
|November 21, 2001
PubMed

Insights

This phase I clinical trial explores gene therapy for malignant mesothelioma using recombinant adenovirus with the HSV-tk gene and ganciclovir. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of this novel cancer treatment approach.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Gene Therapy
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer.
  • Current treatment options for malignant mesothelioma have limited efficacy.
  • Gene therapy offers a novel approach to target and destroy cancer cells.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and feasibility of gene therapy for malignant mesothelioma.
  • To assess the efficacy of recombinant adenovirus-mediated gene transfer and ganciclovir treatment.
  • To determine the maximum tolerated dose of the investigational therapy.

Main Methods:

  • A phase I clinical trial was conducted.
  • Patients received administration of recombinant adenovirus containing the HSV-tk gene.
  • Subsequent tumor kill was induced by ganciclovir.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-one patients with malignant mesothelioma were enrolled.
  • The study is ongoing, and results are pending.
  • Preliminary safety data is being collected.

Conclusions:

  • Gene therapy represents a promising avenue for malignant mesothelioma treatment.
  • Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and long-term outcomes.
  • This trial will provide crucial data for future therapeutic strategies.

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