Antisense Oligonucleotides for Rapid Translation of Gene Therapy in Glioblastoma

Simple Summary The treatment for glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, has not significantly improved in the past two decades. Current standard care involves maximal surgical removal of the tumor followed by chemotherapy and radiation, yet overall survival rates remain low. Gene therapy, particularly the use of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), is a promising new approach. ASOs can target and inhibit specific genes involved in tumor growth. This review discusses the biochemical mechanisms of ASO therapy, recent advancements in their use for glioblastoma, and their potential as an additional treatment in clinical practice.Abstract Purpose: The limited efficacy of current treatments for malignant brain tumors necessitates novel therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to assess the potential of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) as adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, focusing on their CNS penetration and clinical translation prospects. Methods: A comprehensive review of the existing literature was conducted to evaluate the implications of ASOs in neuro-oncology. Studies that investigated ASO therapy's efficacy, CNS penetration, and safety profile were analyzed to assess its potential as a therapeutic intervention for high-grade gliomas. Results: ASOs present a promising avenue for enhancing targeted gene therapies in malignant gliomas. Their potent CNS penetration, in vivo durability, and efficient transduction offer advantages over conventional treatments. Preliminary in vivo and in vitro studies suggest ASOs as a viable adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, warranting further exploration in clinical trials. Conclusions: ASOs hold significant promise as adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, offering improved CNS penetration and durability compared with existing treatments. While preliminary studies are encouraging, additional research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of ASO therapy in clinical settings. Further investigation and clinical trials are warranted to validate ASOs as a transformative approach in neuro-oncology.