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Triplex-forming oligonucleotides as an anti-gene technique for cancer therapy
Chun Li1, Zunzhen Zhou2, Chao Ren2
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China.
Abstract:
Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) can bind to the major groove of double-stranded DNA with high specificity and affinity and inhibit gene expression. Triplex-forming oligonucleotides have gained prominence because of their potential applications in antigene therapy. In particular, the target specificity of triplex-forming oligonucleotides combined with their ability to suppress oncogene expression has driven their development as anti-cancer agents. So far, triplex-forming oligonucleotides have not been used for clinical treatment and seem to be gradually snubbed in recent years. But triplex-forming oligonucleotides still represent an approach to down-regulate the expression of the target gene and a carrier of active substances. Therefore, in the present review, we will introduce the characteristics of triplex-forming oligonucleotides and their anti-cancer research progress. Then, we will discuss the challenges in their application.
Insights
Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) show promise for antigene therapy by inhibiting gene expression, particularly oncogenes. Despite clinical setbacks, TFOs remain valuable for gene regulation and drug delivery.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) bind DNA major grooves with high specificity.
- TFOs have potential applications in antigene therapy, particularly for suppressing oncogene expression.
- Despite their promise, TFOs have not yet been used in clinical treatments and face challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of TFOs.
- To summarize anti-cancer research progress using TFOs.
- To discuss the challenges associated with TFO applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of TFO characteristics.
- Analysis of anti-cancer research involving TFOs.
- Discussion of challenges in TFO application.
Main Results:
- TFOs exhibit specific DNA binding and gene expression inhibition.
- TFOs have been investigated as anti-cancer agents targeting oncogenes.
- Current clinical application is limited, and challenges exist.
Conclusions:
- TFOs are effective tools for gene expression down-regulation.
- TFOs can serve as carriers for active substances.
- Further research is needed to overcome application challenges for TFOs.
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