Improving adenoviral vectors for cancer gene therapy

The delineation of the molecular basis of cancer allows us to intervene at the molecular level for therapeutic purposes. Gene therapy to correct defective genes requires efficient gene delivery. In this regard, recombinant adenoviruses have been efficient for in vivo gene transfer, and numerous human clinical protocols using adenoviruses have rapidly entered into Phase I trials. However, major vector-related problems remain to be solved before the transfer of therapeutic genes by adenoviruses can become an effective strategy for cancer treatment. Here we review a number of diverse advances in the design of adenoviral vectors that are being developed for overcoming those obstacles. As vector technology fulfills these requirements, it is anticipated that promising results will be translated quickly into the clinic.