Current strategies in gene therapy for ovarian cancer.

The application of gene therapy strategies for ovarian cancer has employed various viral and nonviral vectors. Thus far, adenovirus has been the most promising vehicle for gene replacement but the use of non DNA-based viruses is also being explored. Recent novel advances in gene therapy approaches include refinement of vector targeting and the use of site-specific promoters and conditionally replicative adenoviral vectors. Although several clinical trials have documented the relative safety of gene therapy in ovarian cancer patients, few significant clinical responses have been effected. However, advances in the field are occurring rapidly and this strategy does appear promising for the treatment of ovarian cancer.