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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Defining Gene Functions in Tumorigenesis by Ex vivo Ablation of Floxed Alleles in Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Cells
Published on: August 25, 2021
Tumor suppressor genes as cancer therapeutics
Emanuela Vattemi1, Pier Paolo Claudio
1Division of Medical Oncology, Central Regional Hospital, Bolzano, Italy.
Abstract:
Cancer formation is a multistep process that involves the sequential activation of oncogenes as well as the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes often in the same clone of cells. These genetic changes generate concomitant phenotypic changes in the tumor cells that allow them to continue to survive and expand. Over the past decade a number of genetic alterations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have been identified and extensive research has elucidated their role in cellular growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Targeting tumor suppressor gene pathways is an attractive therapeutic strategy in cancer. This review summarizes the current achievements and future prospects of gene replacement therapy. Methods of gene delivery are described, particularly those that have commonly be used in clinical trials. We discuss efforts to achieve tissue-specific gene delivery and improved efficiency of gene delivery.
Insights
Gene replacement therapy offers a promising strategy for cancer treatment by targeting tumor suppressor genes. This review covers current achievements and future directions in gene delivery methods for enhanced cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Gene Therapy
Background:
- Cancer develops through sequential genetic alterations, including oncogene activation and tumor suppressor gene inactivation.
- These genetic changes drive phenotypic alterations, enabling tumor cell survival and proliferation.
- Understanding the roles of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current achievements in gene replacement therapy for cancer.
- To discuss future prospects and challenges in targeting tumor suppressor gene pathways.
- To summarize methods of gene delivery used in clinical trials and efforts toward tissue-specific delivery.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gene therapy in oncology.
- Analysis of gene delivery methods, including those employed in clinical trials.
- Discussion of strategies for improving tissue-specific and overall gene delivery efficiency.
Main Results:
- Gene replacement therapy targeting tumor suppressor pathways is a viable therapeutic strategy.
- Various gene delivery methods have been utilized in clinical settings.
- Ongoing research focuses on enhancing tissue specificity and delivery efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Gene replacement therapy holds significant potential for cancer treatment.
- Advancements in gene delivery methods are critical for therapeutic success.
- Future research should prioritize tissue-specific delivery and improved efficiency to maximize therapeutic benefits.
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