Envisioning the reversal of oncogenesis

Abstract

Cancer, at different stages, is currently treated with conventional methods including chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. These approaches often become ineffective for cancers that have spread aggressively in different parts of the body (metastasis). Hence, researchers have been actively investigating alternative methods to stop cancer-growth (oncogenesis) or even possibly reversing the cancer-growth (regression) without affecting the normal cells. Several approaches are used by scientists ranging from enhancing the immune system (immunotherapy) to genetic manipulations. Prophylactic vaccines are also attempted. An overview of such attempts is presented in this review. Several drugs developed at trial phases, or pre-clinical or exploratory phases are described. Many approaches show a promise of inhibiting oncogenesis, some also in its regression, thereby hinting at a possibility of finding a permanent solution to cancer in future.