Nanoparticle Gene-therapy Strategy Effectively Treats Deadly Brain Cancer

A new study, published in the journal ACS Nano, conducted by Johns Hopkins University, reports that a novel form of nanoparticle gene therapy may be applicable and effective in extreme cases of brain cancer — previously regarded as incurable. Research began by crafting a nanoparticle containing DNA encording herpes simplex type 1 thymidine kinsase (HSVtk) — which is known for its brain cancer applications. When applied to lab-grown glioma cells, there was a 100-percent success rate as the nanoparticles destroyed the cells. “We then evaluated the system in rats with glioma and found that by using a method called intracranial convection-enhanced delivery, our nanoparticles could penetrate completely throughout the tumor following a single injection. When combined with systemic administration of ganciclovir, rats with malignant glioma lived significantly longer than rats that did not receive this treatment.” This study will lead to future, animal-based research before human application is discussed, in order to determine possible risks and evaluate various methods of introducing nanoparticles into existing treatments or as a standalone therapy. To learn more about this study, click here.