DNA vaccination and gene therapy: optimization and delivery for cancer therapy.

This review will focus on DNA vaccine approaches for the prevention or treatment of cancer and its complications. DNA vaccine therapies are a relatively novel method of cancer treatment with the goal to induce immunity against tumor-associated antigens. Both viral and nonviral vaccines have been tested in preclinical and clinical models with variable success. However, the development of new delivery methods, such as electroporation, as well as the use of agents that improve antigen uptake or presentation, and the optimization of the transgene sequences, are overcoming historical drawbacks. Efficacy and safety issues of the in vivo use of DNA-based vaccines, as well as data from preclinical and recent clinical studies, are discussed. Novel developments will improve clinical efficacy, with the potential for DNA vaccination to enter in to the arsenal of cancer therapies in the near future.