Recent developments in the application of plasmid DNA-based vectors and small interfering RNA therapeutics for cancer.

Increased understanding of the molecular pathological mechanisms of cancer, the advent of novel molecular tools such as synthetic small interfering RNA (siRNA) or plasmid DNA-based vectors (pDNA), and technology for the in vivo delivery of such biomolecular therapeutics have provided an encouraging perspective for cancer therapy. Numerous pDNAs and siRNAs have been tested in preclinical cancer models, and these first approaches have reached clinical evaluation. The therapeutic effector mechanisms include interference with neoangiogenesis, blockage of cell division, promotion of apoptosis and sensitization to chemotherapy, delivery of cytotoxic genes, and activation of anticancer immune responses. Physical methods have been developed for highly effective regional delivery. A series of innovative "smart" formulations directs the current development toward safe and effective systemic tumor-targeted delivery of pDNA and siRNA.