Small interfering RNA-based molecular therapy of cancers

Chin J Cancer. 2013 Sep;32(9):488-93. doi: 10.5732/cjc.012.10280. Epub 2013 Jan 18.

Abstract

RNA interference (RNAi) has become a gold standard for validating gene function in basic life science research and provides a promising therapeutic modality for cancer and other diseases. This mini-review focuses on the potential of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in anticancer treatment, including the establishment and screening of cancer-associated siRNA libraries and their applications in anticancer drug target discovery and cancer therapy. This article also describes the current delivery approaches of siRNAs using lipids, polymers, and, in particular, gold nanoparticles to induce significant gene silencing and tumor growth regression.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Carriers
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Gene Targeting
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Gold / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Nanoparticles
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • RNA Interference*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics*

Substances

  • Drug Carriers
  • RNA, Small Interfering
  • Gold