Bacteriophage-based gene delivery: a novel approach for targeted breast cancer therapy

Bacteriophage-based gene delivery systems are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional viral and non-viral vectors for targeted gene therapy in breast cancer. Their unique structural adaptability, low immunogenicity, and cost-effective production make them ideal candidates for precision medicine applications. Unlike conventional gene delivery platforms, bioengineered bacteriophages can be functionalized with tumor-specific ligands, modified for PEGylation to enhance circulation stability, and integrated with CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing systems for precise genomic modifications. Additionally, bacteriophage vectors can be utilized in combination therapy, amplifying the effectiveness of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in breast cancer treatment. This mini-review discusses the bioengineering strategies used to enhance bacteriophage-based gene delivery, including surface modifications for tumor targeting, ligand-receptor binding for cellular uptake, and controlled genetic cargo release. We further examine in vitro and in vivo studies that demonstrate the potential of bacteriophage vectors in tumor suppression, gene expression efficiency, and immunomodulation. Furthermore, we explore the challenges and future directions of integrating bacteriophage-mediated gene therapy into clinical applications, addressing key issues such as systemic circulation half-life, off-target effects, and immune system interactions.