Gene therapy for lung cancer.

BACKGROUND

The techniques of molecular genetics are being applied in many areas of oncology and have been spectacularly successful in elucidating the pathogenesis of cancer. Attempts are now being made to harness this knowledge for therapeutic use. Lung cancers are common solid tumours of complex aetiology and represent a major challenge for gene therapy.

CURRENT INVESTIGATIONS: The approaches presently under investigation include the correction of acquired genetic abnormalities, such as mutation of p53 and activation of the ras oncogene, immunotherapy, enhancement of host resistance to cytotoxic insult, and genetic activation of prodrugs by tissue-specific promoters. A variety of vector systems arc available, including liposomes, replication-defective retroviruses and adenoviruses. Local, regional and systemic routes of administration are being studied, and it seems likely that a combination of these approaches will be needed if such treatments are to become generally available.