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Gene therapy in oral cancer: a review
M Sathish Kumar1, K M K Masthan, N Aravindha Babu
1Professor and Head of the Department, Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Dental Science , Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India .
Abstract:
Gene therapy is the use of DNA as an agent to treat disease. Gene therapy aims at the insertion of a functional gene into the cells of a patient for the correction of an inborn error of metabolism, to alter or repair an acquired genetic abnormality, and to provide new function to the cell. Many experiments have been done with respect to its application in various diseases.Today, most of the gene therapy studies are aimed at cancer and hereditary diseases which are linked to genetic defects. Cancer usually occurs due to the production of multiple mutations in a single cell which cause it to proliferate out of control. Several methods such as surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy have been used widely to treat cancers. But, the cancer patients who are not helped by these therapies can be treated by gene therapy. The purpose of this article is to review the use and purpose of gene therapy in oral cancer.
Insights
Gene therapy uses DNA to treat diseases by correcting genetic defects. This review explores its potential application in treating oral cancer, offering a new avenue for patients unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Gene therapy involves introducing functional DNA into cells to treat diseases.
- It targets genetic defects, including those in cancer and hereditary conditions.
- Conventional cancer treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are not always effective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current applications and potential of gene therapy in treating oral cancer.
- To highlight gene therapy as an alternative for patients with treatment-resistant oral cancers.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature on gene therapy and oral cancer.
- Analysis of experimental data and clinical trial outcomes related to gene therapy in oncology.
Main Results:
- Gene therapy offers a promising approach for oral cancer treatment.
- It can correct genetic abnormalities and provide new cellular functions to combat cancer.
Conclusions:
- Gene therapy presents a viable therapeutic strategy for oral cancer.
- Further research and clinical trials are warranted to optimize its use in oral cancer patients.
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