What Is Gene Therapy?
Gene therapy introduces, removes or modifies genetic material in cells to treat disease. In cancer, it can arm immune cells, deliver tumor-killing genes or make tumors more visible to the immune system.
Approaches in Use
CAR-T Cell Therapy
Genetically modified T cells approved for lymphomas, leukemia and multiple myeloma.
Oncolytic Viruses
Engineered viruses such as T-VEC that infect and destroy melanoma cells.
Gene-Modified TCR Therapy
T cells engineered with receptors recognizing tumor antigens, including in synovial sarcoma.
Gene Editing (CRISPR)
Being studied to build more potent, off-the-shelf immune cells.
Risks & Considerations
- Cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity with cell therapies
- Treatment at specialized, certified centers
- Long-term follow-up for 15 years is recommended after some gene therapies
Medically reviewed content for education only — not a substitute for advice from your oncology team.