Gene Therapy: A Double-Edged Modality with Few Propitious Targets against Cardiovascular Disorders like Heart Failure, Hypertension and Infarction

摘要

Cardiovascular diseases like that of congestive heart failure, hypertension and infarction have reached epidemic proportions, and even though many novel pharmacological formulations and devices have improved survival, a real cure is yet to be found. After extensive research and trials (both preclinical and clinical), gene therapy is seen as an important upcoming tool against cardiovascular disorders. Advancements in the vector technology and in the molecular understanding of various diseases like that of heart failure, ischaemic heart diseases and even polygenic diseases like hypertension have opened doors to a new era of cure. With the improved understanding of the pharmacodynamics and the pharmacokinetics of gene transfer, there is a substantial growth being seen in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders using gene therapy with an increasing number of potential targets (genes), especially in the post-human genome era. Few potential targets have been identified for gene therapy from various molecular pathways, which along with the newly developing delivery systems will accelerate and strengthen the fight against heart failure and ischaemia (therapeutic angiogenesis), in which at present most of the clinical trials are going on. But at the same time, all the potential adverse effects and safety concerns arising with these new modalities should also be assessed before enforcement