RDCs Targeted Gene

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the field of precision medicine, aiming to provide personalized treatment options for patients based on their unique genetic makeup. One such innovative approach is the use of radionuclide drug conjugates (RDCs) in targeted gene therapy, which holds tremendous potential in treating various diseases, including cancer.

Figure 1. Administration of radionuclide carriers in the tumor site and their further accumulation via active targeting approach.(Peltek OO, et al.; 2019)

Radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy combines the precision of targeted gene therapy with the therapeutic efficacy of radionuclide therapy. Gene therapy involves introducing specific genes into cells to correct genetic abnormalities or enhance their therapeutic potential. On the other hand, radionuclide therapy utilizes radioactive isotopes to deliver targeted radiation to cancer cells, leading to their destruction.

The integration of these two therapeutic modalities offers several advantages. Firstly, the targeting component of radionuclide drug conjugates enables specific delivery of the therapeutic gene to the desired cells or tissues. This targeted approach minimizes off-target effects and reduces damage to healthy cells, resulting in improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects.

Secondly, the inclusion of a radionuclide component in the conjugate allows for localized radiation therapy, which can be highly effective in eradicating cancer cells. By combining gene therapy with radiation, the therapeutic potential is significantly enhanced, leading to enhanced tumor suppression and increased overall survival rates.

Furthermore, radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy can overcome some of the limitations associated with traditional gene therapy approaches. One such limitation is the transient nature of gene expression. By incorporating a radionuclide, the therapeutic effect can be prolonged, as the radiation not only destroys the cancer cells but also provides a continuous source of localized therapeutic activity.

The development of radionuclide drug conjugates involves the coupling of a radionuclide to a gene delivery vector. The vector acts as a carrier, delivering the therapeutic gene to the target cells. Various types of vectors can be used, including viral vectors, non-viral vectors, and nanoparticle-based systems. Each vector type has its advantages and considerations, depending on the specific application and target cells.

In addition to cancer treatment, radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy holds promise in other disease areas as well. For example, it can be used in cardiovascular disorders to target specific genes involved in the progression of atherosclerosis or restenosis. By delivering therapeutic genes to the affected arteries and combining them with localized radiation, the therapy can inhibit plaque formation and promote vessel healing.

Moreover, this approach can be applied in neurodegenerative diseases to deliver genes that enhance neuronal survival or modulate disease-associated pathways. By selectively targeting the affected brain regions, radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy may help slow down disease progression and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy represents a promising approach in precision medicine. By combining the advantages of targeted gene therapy with the therapeutic potential of radionuclide therapy, this innovative strategy offers improved treatment outcomes, reduced side effects, and prolonged therapeutic activity. As research in this field continues to advance, radionuclide drug conjugate targeted gene therapy has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach the treatment of various diseases, bringing us closer to the era of personalized medicine.

Reference

1. Peltek OO, et al.; Current outlook on radionuclide delivery systems: from design consideration to translation into clinics. J Nanobiotechnology. 2019, 17(1):90.