New systems of controlled gene expression for improved delivery of therapeutic substances
This proposal wishes to contribute to the development of new treatments against the high frequency diseases of cancer, retinopathies and atherosclerosis, touching up to 42% of the population. The proposed approach is to create new gene transfer systems based on programmes of coupled transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations of gene expression, for an efficient and controlled delivery of active therapeutic agents. Regulatory tools emerging from fundamental research results will allow the creation of new vectors and of genetically modified cells efficiently expressing combinations of anti-angiogenic agents or growth factors and cytokines. Anti-angiogenesis can target up to 100% of solid tumours and most retinopathies. Angiogenic and anti-inflammatory agents target atheroma plaque, to prevent myocardial infarction.
The vectors and cell lines delivering therapeutic substances, tested on animals models, will be commercialised to big industrial companies in Europe that think launching clinical assays and exploit them in a large scale. This programme is expected to create a large added value for European community.
This project is done in collaboration with CISTRONIC, INSERM, University of Cambridge and University of Rennes.
