Novel Cancer Therapy Uses “Gene Silencing” to Stop Tumor Growth

The article reviews recent progress in cancer therapies that target RNA, not just DNA or proteins, as a way to treat tumors. It explains that instead of relying only on traditional drugs or immunotherapies, scientists are now using RNA-based strategies (like siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, mRNA, etc.) to directly influence gene expression within cancer cells. Because many cancers involve mutations or dysregulation of multiple genes, RNA therapies are especially promising: they can target multiple genes or pathways simultaneously, including some that are “undruggable” by conventional small-molecule drugs. The authors argue that combining RNA-targeted therapy with advanced delivery systems gives a powerful new route toward more precise, effective cancer treatment.

Link: https://chemistry-europe.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cbic.202300633

Scientists have developed a therapy that uses RNA interference (RNAi) to silence genes that tumors need to survive. By shutting down specific cancer-promoting genes, the tumor cells stop dividing and eventually die. This technology is exciting because it targets cancer at the genetic level, meaning treatments could become more precise with fewer side effects. This shows how understanding gene regulation directly contributes to new medical treatments and personalized medicine.
    

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/nrc1799