title: Gene therapy for colorectal cancer.
abstract: Gene therapy has been developed as a potential novel treatment modality for colorectal cancer. The preclinical data have been promising and several clinical trials are under way for colorectal cancer. Data from many phase 1 trials have proven the safety of the reagents, but have not yet demonstrated significant therapeutic benefit. In order to refine this approach, continuing efforts should be made to improve the antitumour potency, efficiency of gene delivery, and accuracy of gene targeting. It is likely that gene therapy will be integrated into pre-existing therapies including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy to establish its niche in tomorrow's medicine.
authors.affiliation: CRUK Institute for Cancer Studies, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, Vincent Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TF, UK.
authors.forename: Daniel H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Palmer
authors.forename: Ming-Jen
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Kerr
mesh_terms: D017321:Clinical Trials, Phase I as Topic; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D016158:Genes, p53; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D013602:T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / Q000276:immunology