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siRNA-based therapy for gastric adenocarcinoma: what's next step?
Dyar Mudhafar Salman1, Talar Ahmad Merza Mohammad2
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq; Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
Abstract:
Gastric cancer continues to have a high death rate despite advancements in their diagnosis and treatment. Novel treatment techniques are thus desperately needed. This is where double-stranded RNA molecules known as small interfering RNA (siRNA), which may selectively target the mRNA of disease-causing genes, may find use in medicine. For siRNAs to function properly in the human body, they must be shielded from deterioration. Furthermore, in order to maintain organ function, they must only target the tumor and spare normal tissue. siRNAs have been designed using clever delivery mechanisms including polymers and lipids to achieve these objectives. Although siRNA protection is not hard to acquire, it is still challenging to target cancer cells with them. Here, we first discuss the basic characteristics of gastric cancer before describing the properties of siRNA and typical delivery methods created specifically for gastric tumors. Lastly, we provide a succinct overview of research using siRNAs to treat gastric tumors.
Insights
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) offers a promising avenue for gastric cancer treatment by selectively targeting disease-causing genes. Delivery systems are crucial for protecting siRNA and ensuring it reaches tumor cells effectively.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Gastric cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
- Current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have limitations, necessitating novel treatment approaches.
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology presents a potential therapeutic modality for targeted gene silencing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of siRNA as a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer.
- To review the challenges and advancements in siRNA delivery systems for gastric tumors.
- To summarize current research on siRNA-based gastric cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of gastric cancer characteristics.
- Explanation of siRNA properties and mechanisms of action.
- Overview of various siRNA delivery strategies, including polymers and lipids.
- Review of existing research on siRNA applications in gastric cancer models.
Main Results:
- siRNA can selectively target and silence mRNA of oncogenes.
- Effective delivery systems are essential for siRNA stability and tumor-specific targeting.
- Challenges remain in achieving efficient delivery and targeting of siRNA to gastric cancer cells.
- Various delivery vehicles, such as nanoparticles, are being developed to overcome these hurdles.
Conclusions:
- siRNA holds significant promise for the targeted therapy of gastric cancer.
- Advancements in delivery systems are critical for realizing the full therapeutic potential of siRNA.
- Further research is needed to optimize siRNA delivery and efficacy in clinical settings for gastric cancer treatment.
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