Gene Therapy (definition of)

Gene therapy involves the repair or replacement of defective genes responsible for disease.

About Genes

Genes are literally the blueprint of life; they are the body's software. Defective or damaged genes cannot carry out normal functions, resulting in disorders such as cancer. By inserting healthy instructions in the form of genetic material (DNA and RNA) into cells, such conditions may be prevented.

The Mechanism

In most cases, a normal gene is inserted into the patient's cells to replace an abnormal, disease-causing gene. A carrier molecule, or vector, is used to deliver the therapeutic gene to the target cells (in this case, the cancer cells). These vectors are usually genetically-modified viruses that contain healthy human DNA that will be used to replace the recipient's damaged gene, enabling them to restore themselves to a healthy state.

Other methods of delivering healthy genetic material to defective genes are currently being studied. Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages, and each may be useful in treating a distinct form of cancer, like mesothelioma. Different types of gene therapy are undergoing clinical trials at present, but none are now available in the U.S. outside of these trials.

Mesothelioma patients (including peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma patients) interested in participating in gene therapy trials should consult their mesothelioma doctors as to the availability of trials for which they may qualify.

To learn more about gene therapy view our mesothelioma treatment guide.