The role of oncology nurses in gene therapy.

In February 2001, the Human Genome Project international consortium announced the publication of a draft sequence and initial analysis of the human genome. Although a definitive count of human genes must await further experimental and computational analysis, scientists now estimate that the human genome contains 30000-35000 genes--a much smaller number than initially estimated. The advances in treatment which will result from this research and our improved understanding of cancer at a molecular level will rapidly change the management of cancer. Gene therapy represents one new approach to treatment, but is currently still experimental. This article reviews the important role of the oncology nurse as a member of the multidisciplinary team caring for patients who receive gene therapy as part of a clinical trial.