Clinical experience with adenovirus in cancer therapy.

Gene therapy is emerging as a novel treatment modality for cancer. Preclinical data utilizing adenovirus vectors have been promising and several clinical trials employing this vector are underway. Data from many phase I trials have established the safety of adenovirus vectors, but have not as yet demonstrated significant therapeutic benefit. In order to refine this approach, continuing efforts are being made to improve antitumor potency, efficiency of gene delivery and accuracy of vector targeting. It is anticipated that adenovirus-mediated gene therapy will be integrated with existing treatment modalities, including surgery chemotherapy and radiotherapy, to facilitate improvements in cancer treatments in the future.