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TRAIL gene therapy: from preclinical development to clinical application

Thomas S Griffith1, Brittany Stokes, Tamara A Kucaba

  • 1Department of Urology, University of Iowa, 375 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. thomas-griffith@uiowa.edu

Current Gene Therapy
|March 12, 2009
PubMed

Insights

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) shows promise as a cancer therapy due to its tumor-specific apoptosis induction. TRAIL gene therapy is being explored to overcome limitations of protein administration for effective antitumor activity.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gene Therapy

Background:

  • TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis in tumor cells selectively, sparing normal tissues.
  • Extensive research covers TRAIL/TRAIL receptor expression, signaling pathways, and modulating tumor cell sensitivity.
  • TRAIL's potential as a cancer therapeutic has been investigated since its discovery in 1995.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore TRAIL gene transfer therapy as an alternative antitumor strategy.
  • To address limitations associated with systemic recombinant TRAIL protein administration.
  • To translate preclinical findings into clinical applications for treating human primary tumors.

Main Methods:

  • Investigating TRAIL gene transfer for localized delivery.
  • Analyzing TRAIL/TRAIL receptor expression and signaling.
  • Developing methods to enhance tumor cell sensitivity to TRAIL.

Main Results:

  • TRAIL gene transfer offers an alternative to recombinant protein therapy.
  • Intratumoral TRAIL gene delivery presents challenges for maximal therapeutic potential.
  • Preclinical studies are advancing towards clinical translation.

Conclusions:

  • TRAIL gene therapy is a promising approach for cancer treatment.
  • Further research is needed to optimize TRAIL gene delivery and efficacy.
  • Clinical translation aims for robust tumoricidal activity with minimal toxicity.

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