Tumor-Targeting Peptides for Therapeutic Gene Delivery
Abstract
The identification of markers expressed on specific tumors would give valuable insights into the specialization of tumor vasculature, and would also provide a means of targeting distinct tumor sites. We have recently developed a novel approach for in vivo selection of peptides capable of homing into specific organs or tumors. We have demonstrated the feasibility of the approach by isolating a panel of targeting peptides that bind selectively to receptors either within the angiogenic vasculature of tumors or directly on tumor cells. In this proposal we intend to extend this approach by screening experimental breast carcinoma models in vivo. We will use phage display peptide libraries to identify tumor homing peptide motifs capable of recognizing breast tumors. Using targeting peptides, we have shown in animal experiments that an anthracyclin drug can be converted into a less toxic and more potent anti-cancer agent than the free drug. Here we propose to generate molecular conjugates that can target gene therapy vectors to breast tumors in vivo following intravenous administration. Since only a small subset of tumors are accessible to direct injection, targeted vectors would overcome the current limitations associated with the delivery of therapeutic genes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA389899
Entities
People
- Renata Pasqualini
Organizations
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute