Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2025
In Vivo Inhibition of MicroRNA to Decrease Tumor Growth in Mice
Published on: August 23, 2019
Potential Application of Small Interfering RNA in Gastro-Intestinal Tumors
Pasquale Losurdo1,2, Nicolò de Manzini1, Silvia Palmisano1
1Surgical Clinic Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy.
Abstract:
Despite the progress made in the diagnoses and therapy of gastrointestinal cancers, these diseases are still plagued by a high mortality. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches are urgently required. In this regard, small interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA molecules able to specifically target the mRNA of pathological genes, have the potential to be of therapeutic value. To be effective in the human body, siRNAs need to be protected against degradation. Additionally, they need to target the tumor, leaving the normal tissue untouched in an effort to preserve organ function. To accomplish these tasks, siRNAs have been formulated with smart delivery systems such has polymers and lipids. While siRNA protection is not particularly difficult to achieve, their targeting of tumor cells remains problematic. Here, after introducing the general features of gastrointestinal cancers, we describe siRNA characteristics together with representative delivery systems developed for gastrointestinal cancers. Afterward, we present a selection of research papers employing siRNAs against upper- and lower- gastrointestinal cancers. For the liver, we also consider papers using siRNAs to combat liver cirrhosis, a relevant risk factor for liver cancer development. Finally, we present a brief description of clinical trials employing siRNAs for gastrointestinal cancers.
Insights
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) offers a promising therapeutic strategy for gastrointestinal cancers by targeting specific messenger RNA (mRNA). Developing effective delivery systems remains key to overcoming challenges in tumor targeting and clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal cancers exhibit high mortality rates despite diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
- Novel therapeutic strategies are crucial to improve patient outcomes.
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA) presents a potential therapeutic modality due to its ability to target pathological gene messenger RNA (mRNA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of siRNA and its delivery systems for gastrointestinal cancers.
- To explore the application of siRNA in treating upper and lower gastrointestinal cancers, as well as liver cirrhosis.
- To summarize the current landscape of clinical trials involving siRNA for gastrointestinal malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research papers on siRNA therapy for gastrointestinal cancers.
- Analysis of siRNA characteristics and delivery systems (polymers, lipids).
- Inclusion of studies on liver cirrhosis as a precursor to liver cancer.
Main Results:
- siRNA technology shows potential for specific mRNA targeting in cancer therapy.
- Development of smart delivery systems is essential for siRNA protection and tumor-specific delivery.
- Research encompasses various gastrointestinal cancers and related conditions like liver cirrhosis.
Conclusions:
- siRNA-based therapies hold promise for gastrointestinal cancers, but effective tumor targeting remains a challenge.
- Advanced delivery systems are critical for successful clinical translation.
- Ongoing clinical trials indicate active research and development in this field.
Related Concept Videos
02:30siRNA - Small Interfering RNAs
In the cytoplasm, siRNA is processed from a double-stranded RNA, which comes from either endogenous DNA transcription or exogenous sources like a virus. This double-stranded RNA is then cleaved by the...
02:15Experimental RNAi
02:30Small interfering RNAs (siRNA)
01:23RNA Interference
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...
01:22MicroRNAs