Gene therapy in cancer: the missing point

J Exp Ther Oncol. 2005;5(2):151-8.

Abstract

Over the last century cancer research has produced data leading to a composite picture where gene mutations and epigenetic phenomena strictly relate and overlap. This complexity has repercussions on the anti-cancer therapeutical strategies. The therapeutic pathway paved by the kochian one-cause/one disease principle fails in front of a multigenic multiphenomena disease like cancer. We still do not know what target(s) to hit/modify in order to prevent/stop the carcinogenic progression. On the light of cancer statistics 2005, we discuss the need of exactly defining the cancer targets in order to exploit the high potential of gene therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chromosome Aberrations
  • Genetic Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / etiology
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / therapy*