Gene therapy: current strategies and future applications.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a brief introduction to gene therapy, including gene transfer methods and safety issues, as well as the role of nursing in gene therapy. To identify current applications of gene therapy in oncology.


METHODS
Published articles, book chapters, and the author's experience with the care of patients receiving gene therapy.


RESULTS
Gene therapy is used to add a new function to cells or to label cells for future identification. Presently, gene transfer is accomplished primarily through safety-modified retroviral vectors. A variety of innovative gene therapy approaches currently are being investigated in clinical trials, but no outcomes have been reported.


CONCLUSIONS
Gene therapy is a new, rapidly-evolving investigational modality with promising applications in the treatment of patients with brain, skin, kidney, and other cancers and patients who are undergoing bone marrow transplantation.


CONCLUSIONS
Gene therapy is an investigational modality in phase I clinical trials that requires thorough patient care planning and patient monitoring for unexpected side effects. There is an increasing need for nurses to understand gene therapy so that they can educate patients and families.
Wheeler
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D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing / Q000639:trends; D006801:Humans; D009626:Terminology as Topic