Viral vector-mediated transduction of a modified platelet factor 4 cDNA inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth

Chronic systemic delivery of therapeutic proteins, such as inhibitors of angiogenesis, present a number of difficult pharmacological challenges. To overcome these problems for one such protein, we constructed retroviral and adenoviral vectors that express a novel, secretable form of the antiangiogenic protein, platelet factor 4 (sPF4). Vector-mediated sPF4 transduction selectively inhibits endothelial cell proliferation in vitro, and results in hypovascular tumors that grow slowly in vivo. Additionally, tumor-associated angiogenesis is inhibited and animal survival is prolonged, following transduction of established intracerebral gliomas by an sPF4-expressing adenoviral vector. These data support the concept that targeted antiangiogenesis, using virally mediated gene transfer, represents a promising strategy for delivering antiangiogenic therapy.