Interference Rna Intervention In Brain Tumors

Malignant gliomas preferentially express a number of surface markers that may be exploited as therapeutic targets, such as tenascin-C, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein which contributes to tumor cell adhesion, invasion, migration, and proliferation. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of malignant glioma, characterized by genetic instability, intratumoral histopathological variability, and unpredictable clinical behavior. Disappointing results in the treatment of gliomas with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have fueled the search for new treatment modalities.In this paper, we present data from RNA interference experimental therapy of patients suffering from brain tumors. After surgical resection, they were treated with dsRNA (ATN-RNA) complementary to the part of the sequence of tenascin-C mRNA. MRI and CT follow-up studies showed a tumor growth delay or lack of its recurrence, due to inhibition of TN-C synthesis. A significant improvement in overall survival (OS) without losing the quality of life (QOL) of the patients was observed. This novel therapy intervention based on RNA interference (iRNAi) shows a big therapeutical potential and, to our knowledge, is the first application of RNAi in human disease treatment.