Gene therapy is a method of treating diseases by editing or altering genes within the cells of the body. Genes contain codes for making many different kinds of proteins. Proteins affect how cells grow, behave and communicate with each other.

In the case of cancer, genes become defective or damaged, causing some cells to grow out of control and form tumors. The goal of cancer gene therapy is to treat disease by replacing or modifying this damaged genetic information with a healthy code.

Researchers are still studying most gene therapies in the lab or in clinical trials.

Gene editing

Gene editing is the process of adding, removing or modifying genes. It is also known as genome editing. In the context of cancer treatment, a new gene will be introduced into cancer cells. This can either cause cancer cells to die or prevent them from growing.

The research is still in its early stages (why are cancer cells difficult to treat), but it shows promise. Until now, most research on gene editing has involved animal or isolated cells, not human cells. Nevertheless, the research continues to advance and develop.

The CRISPR system is an example of gene editing that has received a lot of attention. The system allows researchers to use an enzyme and a modified piece of nucleic acid to target a specific DNA sequence. This enzyme removes the DNA sequence so that it can be replaced with a custom one.

So far, several Phase 1 clinical trials have been completed using CRISPR technology to modify T cells in patients with advanced cancer. Phase 1 clinical trials evaluate the safety and feasibility of a new treatment.