Pancreatic cancer gene therapy: from molecular targets to delivery systems
Cristina Fillat1, Anabel Jose, Xavier Bofill-Deros
1Programa Gens i Malaltia, Centre de Regulació Genòmica-CRG, UPF, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona-PRBB and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain. cristina.fillat@crg.es.
Abstract:
The continuous identification of molecular changes deregulating critical pathways in pancreatic tumor cells provides us with a large number of novel candidates to engineer gene-targeted approaches for pancreatic cancer treatment. Targets-both protein coding and non-coding-are being exploited in gene therapy to influence the deregulated pathways to facilitate cytotoxicity, enhance the immune response or sensitize to current treatments. Delivery vehicles based on viral or non-viral systems as well as cellular vectors with tumor homing characteristics are a critical part of the design of gene therapy strategies. The different behavior of tumoral versus non-tumoral cells inspires vector engineering with the generation of tumor selective products that can prevent potential toxic-associated effects. In the current review, a detailed analysis of the different targets, the delivery vectors, the preclinical approaches and a descriptive update on the conducted clinical trials are presented. Moreover, future possibilities in pancreatic cancer treatment by gene therapy strategies are discussed.
Insights
Gene therapy offers new pancreatic cancer treatments by targeting molecular changes. Researchers are developing novel delivery systems for enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity in preclinical and clinical studies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Gene Therapy
Background:
- Pancreatic cancer exhibits deregulated molecular pathways.
- Novel molecular targets are continuously identified for therapeutic intervention.
- Gene therapy presents a promising avenue for pancreatic cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current gene therapy targets for pancreatic cancer.
- To analyze delivery vectors and preclinical approaches.
- To update on clinical trials and discuss future strategies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of gene therapy in pancreatic cancer.
- Analysis of protein-coding and non-coding targets.
- Evaluation of viral, non-viral, and cellular delivery systems.
- Assessment of preclinical data and clinical trial outcomes.
Main Results:
- Numerous molecular targets are being explored for gene therapy.
- Diverse delivery vehicles are engineered for tumor selectivity.
- Preclinical studies show potential for enhanced cytotoxicity and immune response.
- Clinical trials are ongoing, with evolving strategies.
Conclusions:
- Gene therapy holds significant potential for pancreatic cancer treatment.
- Target selection and efficient, tumor-specific delivery are crucial.
- Continued research and clinical trials are essential for advancing this field.
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