Advances in viral vector-based TRAIL gene therapy for cancer

Lyse A. Norian, Britnie R. James, Thomas S. Griffith

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Numerous biologic approaches are being investigated as anti-cancer therapies in an attempt to induce tumor regression while circumventing the toxic side effects associated with standard chemo- or radiotherapies. Among these, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has shown particular promise in pre-clinical and early clinical trials, due to its preferential ability to induce apoptotic cell death in cancer cells and its minimal toxicity. One limitation of TRAIL use is the fact that many tumor types display an inherent resistance to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. To circumvent this problem, researchers have explored a number of strategies to optimize TRAIL delivery and to improve its efficacy via co-administration with other anti-cancer agents. In this review, we will focus on TRAIL-based gene therapy approaches for the treatment of malignancies. We will discuss the main viral vectors that are being used for TRAIL gene therapy and the strategies that are currently being attempted to improve the efficacy of TRAIL as an anti-cancer therapeutic.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)603-620
Number of pages18
JournalCancers
Volume3
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2011

Keywords

  • Apoptosis
  • Cancer
  • Gene therapy
  • TRAIL
  • Viral vectors

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