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 .

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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