What are the Therapeutic Applications of RNAi in Cancer?
RNAi has several therapeutic applications in cancer treatment:
1. Gene Silencing: By targeting and silencing oncogenes, RNAi can potentially halt the progression of cancer. For instance, siRNA targeting the BCL-2 gene, which is overexpressed in some cancers, can trigger apoptosis in cancer cells. 2. Drug Resistance: RNAi can be used to overcome drug resistance by silencing genes that contribute to the resistance mechanisms, such as those encoding efflux pumps or DNA repair proteins. 3. Combination Therapies: RNAi can be used in combination with traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation to enhance their effectiveness. For example, silencing genes involved in DNA repair can make cancer cells more susceptible to radiation.
