title: Synthetic vs. natural/biodegradable polymers for delivery of shRNA-based cancer therapies.
abstract: DNA vector-based short hairpin RNA (shRNA) as a means of effecting RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising mechanism for the precise disruption of gene expression to achieve a therapeutic effect. The clinical usage of shRNA therapeutics in cancer is limited by obstacles related to effective delivery into the nuclei of target cancer cells. Significant pre-clinical data have been amassed about biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymeric delivery vehicles that are relevant for shRNA delivery into humans. Here, we will review some leading candidates for clinical usage with a focus on studies relating to their potential for usage in cancer shRNA therapeutics and discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of using biodegradable and non-biodegradable delivery vehicles.
authors.affiliation: Mary Crowley Medical Research Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
authors.forename: John S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Vorhies
authors.forename: John J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Nemunaitis
mesh_terms: D020868:Gene Silencing; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D011108:Polymers / Q000378:metabolism*; D012313:RNA / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D034622:RNA Interference
chemical_list: D011108:Polymers; D012313:RNA