Potentiation of radiotherapy by a localized antiangiogenic gene therapy.

Background And Purpose: We hypothesized that electrotransfer of a plasmid encoding an antiangiogenic factor, the recombinant disintegrin domain of ADAM-15, (pRDD) could modify the tumor microenvironment and radiosensitize tumor.

Materials And Methods: pRDD was injected in the TLT tumor or FSaII fibrosarcomas before electroporation. pO2 in tumors and oxygen consumption in vitro were measured by electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry. Tumor perfusion was assessed by laser doppler imaging and patent blue assay.

Results: pRDD electrotransfer caused a significant delay in TLT growth and an anti-angiogenic effect. It significantly increased tumor pO2 in TLT and FSaII for at least 4 days. pRDD electrotransfer and radiotherapy were more effective than either treatment alone. Modifications of tumor microenvironment were evaluated: tumor perfusion and interstitial fluid pressure were not modified. Oxygen consumption by the cells was decreased resulting both from a decrease in oxygen consumption rate and from a decrease in cell viability.

Conclusion: The combination of localized antiangiogenic gene therapy and radiotherapy applied in the time of maximal oxygenation could be a promising alternative for cancer treatment.