Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026
Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen for Unveiling Radiosensitive and Radioresistant Genes
Published on: May 23, 2025
Challenges and opportunities for siRNA-based cancer treatment
Tao Wang1, Sarah Shigdar2, Hadi Al Shamaileh2
1School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; School of Medicine, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3217, Australia.
Abstract:
As one of the life-threatening diseases involving multi-step genetic and epigenetic disorders, cancer has long been a dynamic research area for siRNA-based therapy as half of the current siRNA-based clinical trials are involved in oncology. However, despite consistent enthusiasm in the academic world, siRNA-based cancer treatment still faces obstacles and difficulties in clinical development. In this article, we discuss key challenges facing siRNA-based cancer treatment revealed from recent clinical and preclinical studies, including chemical modification, tumour penetration, endosomal escape, target selection and off-target effects. In addition, opportunities and avenues for translating siRNA technology from bench to oncologic clinics are explored.
Insights
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy shows promise for cancer treatment but faces significant hurdles. This review examines challenges and opportunities for advancing siRNA cancer therapies in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer involves complex genetic and epigenetic disorders, making it a prime target for novel therapies.
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy is a key focus in oncology, with many clinical trials underway.
- Despite academic interest, siRNA cancer treatments face clinical development challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key challenges in clinical siRNA-based cancer treatment.
- To explore opportunities for translating siRNA technology to oncologic clinics.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of recent clinical and preclinical studies on siRNA cancer therapy.
- Identification of critical obstacles in siRNA development.
Main Results:
- Key challenges include chemical modification, tumor penetration, endosomal escape, target selection, and off-target effects.
- Recent studies highlight specific difficulties in translating siRNA technology.
Conclusions:
- Overcoming identified challenges is crucial for successful clinical translation of siRNA cancer therapy.
- Further research and strategic development are needed to realize the potential of siRNA in oncology.
More Related Videos
07:59Author Spotlight: Advancements in Molecular Biomarker Testing for Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: September 8, 2023
09:23Inducing Targeted Mild Hyperthermia in Murine Tumor Models through Photothermal Conversion of Near-infrared Light by Intratumoral Gold Nanorods
Published on: October 10, 2025
Related Concept Videos
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
02:56Treatment Resistent Cancers
02:56Treatment Resistant Cancers
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
02:49Cancer Therapies