Gene therapy has become a promising cancer treatment by using the body’s genetic machinery to fight tumors, marking a major advance in personalized medicine.
Initially, gene therapy in the late 20th century focused on delivering therapeutic genes via viral vectors, replacing defective tumor-suppressor genes like p53 or introducing “suicide genes” to make cancer cells drug-sensitive. Early trials faced severe challenges, including immune reactions and unintended activation of oncogenes, slowing progress and prompting development of safer, more targeted delivery systems.
In recent years, the field has advanced with sophisticated approaches. CAR T-cell therapy modifies patients’ T-cells to target tumors precisely, while oncolytic viruses like T-VEC selectively kill cancer cells and stimulate immunity. CRISPR-based gene editing is being explored to correct cancer-driving mutations or enhance immune function. Future directions aim to expand solid tumor applications, develop off-the-shelf therapies, and integrate gene therapy with other treatments, ultimately improving precision, accessibility, and potentially preventing hereditary cancers.