Currently, cancer poses a significant threat to human health, contributing to mortality
rates of approximately one in every six deaths. According to the WHO's discussion
on World Cancer Day 2024, an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million
deaths occurred in 2022. Given the current landscape of diagnosis and treatment, the
burden of cancer is projected to increase in the upcoming years.[1] Advancements in molecular technologies, particularly DNA- and RNA-based treatments,
have led to promising advancements in cancer research. Recent discoveries in DNA nanotechnology
have led to the creation of structures that can directly target cancer cells with
therapeutic agents.[2] In 2019, Li et al created a DNA origami–based autonomous DNA robot for precise drug
delivery in cancer therapy. This nanorobot, functionalized with a DNA aptamer that
binds nucleolin and thrombin, delivers thrombin to tumor-associated blood vessels,
inducing intravascular thrombosis and tumor necrosis.[3] This nanorobot is safe and immunologically inert, demonstrating its potential as
an innovative strategy for cancer treatment. Translation is a process of protein preparation
from the messenger RNA and plays an important role in regulating cell growth and death.
Discoveries make miRNA a tiny molecule as an effective therapeutic agent in gene regulation
in cancer treatment by preventing protein translation by manipulation. Victor Ambros
and Gary Ruckus highlighted the importance of miRNAs in gene regulation in 2004, for
which they were awarded a Nobel Prize in physiology and medicine.[4]
New molecular technologies enable the analysis of specific tumor mutations, enabling
personalized vaccine development. BioNTech, a biotech company, is leading this revolutionary
approach to modify therapies for unique cancer genetic profiles.[5]
Scientists are using DNA and RNA technology to develop precise, effective cancer treatments,
utilizing the unique properties of nucleic acid for new hope in the fight against
cancer.
