Ultrasound and microbubble-mediated gene delivery in cancer: progress and perspectives

Invest Radiol. 2013 Nov;48(11):755-69. doi: 10.1097/RLI.0b013e3182982cc1.

Abstract

Ultrasound-mediated gene delivery with microbubbles has emerged as an attractive nonviral vector system for site-specific and noninvasive gene therapy. Ultrasound promotes intracellular uptake of therapeutic agents, particularly in the presence of microbubbles, by increasing vascular and cell membrane permeability. Several preclinical studies have reported successful gene delivery into solid tumors with significant therapeutic effects using this novel approach. This review provides background information on gene therapy and ultrasound bioeffects and discusses the current progress and overall perspectives on the application of ultrasound and microbubble-mediated gene delivery in cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane Permeability
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Gene Transfer Techniques*
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Genetic Vectors
  • Microbubbles*
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Ultrasonics*