Gene Therapy against Various Malignancies

Background: Malignancies are primarily caused by mutagenic initiation followed by disturbance in the normal regulation of cell growth that causes uncontrolled proliferation. As the primary cause is genetic mutation, it is not surprising if most of them might be cured by gene therapy. Objective: To present comprehensive information about the various approaches in gene therapy, as well as various studies and attempts toward the treatment of malignancies by gene therapy, and finally the adverse effect that happened in gene therapy trials. Design: A review of the literature concerning the various approaches and studies using gene therapy to cure various malignancies. Methods: We reviewed the literature, summarize, and presented in a comprehensive way the various approaches and studies using gene therapy to cure various malignancies. Results: Various in vitro and animal studies revealed that gene therapy might be effective against various malignancies. Clinical trials of gene therapy in lung tumors showed evidence of anti-tumor activity. However, some clinical trials in gene therapy did not offer significant tumor control in colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic liver cancer, and head and neck cancer. Therefore, efforts should be made to improve the technique. Moreover, side effect did happened and should be considered. Conclusion: Gene therapy might be effective against various malignancies, and clinical trials have been done. However, side effect was reported, and efforts should be made to improve the technique.