Viral vector: potential therapeutic for glioblastoma multiforme

Cancer Gene Ther. 2020 May;27(5):270-279. doi: 10.1038/s41417-019-0124-8. Epub 2019 Jul 18.

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme is a highly malignant primary brain tumour found in adults and is highlighted as the most devastating among all the other grades of glioma. Well-established standard treatment methods, such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, have resulted in modest improvement in the survival of patients. Hence, the arduous search for novel treatments backed by advancements in molecular biology still persists. Glioblastoma has many distinctive characteristics, which makes it a potential candidate for gene therapy. Gene therapy involves the delivery of genetic material of therapeutic use into tumour cells, which produces a specific antitumour response. Moreover, viruses stimulate a vigorous cytotoxic effect, they are easily modifiable and the inherent property of horizontal transfer of genetic material makes them valuable tools for genetic engineering. In this review, we have enlisted the various viral vectors employed in gene therapy for glioblastoma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / genetics
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Genetic Vectors / administration & dosage*
  • Genetic Vectors / genetics
  • Glioblastoma / genetics
  • Glioblastoma / pathology
  • Glioblastoma / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Plasmids / genetics
  • Signal Transduction / genetics
  • Viruses / genetics*