Advancements in gene therapy for lung cancer: from genetic insights to clinical applications

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide.
• Conventional treatments face limitations, including drug resistance and significant side effects.
• Gene therapy presents a novel therapeutic avenue for lung cancer management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of gene therapy in lung cancer treatment.
• To highlight key gene therapy strategies, delivery systems, and associated challenges.
• To discuss the future potential of gene therapy in revolutionizing lung cancer care.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on gene therapy applications in lung cancer.
• Analysis of gene replacement, editing, and silencing techniques.
• Evaluation of delivery vectors, including viral vectors (adenoviruses, AAVs) and nanoparticles (exosomes, liposomes).

Main Results:

• Gene therapy strategies like CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA interference show potential in targeting oncogenes and restoring tumor suppressor functions.
• Advanced delivery systems enhance precision and efficacy, aiding in overcoming drug resistance and boosting immune responses.
• Ongoing clinical trials with CAR T-cell therapies and oncolytic viruses demonstrate therapeutic promise.

Conclusions:

• Gene therapy holds significant potential to transform lung cancer treatment paradigms.
• Overcoming challenges such as off-target effects, immune responses, and tumor heterogeneity is crucial for clinical advancement.
• Continued research and optimization of delivery methods are essential for realizing the full potential of gene therapy in lung cancer.