| abstract |
The present invention describes a method for the selection and temporal expression of heterologous genes. The invention consists of methods to obtain selective and temporal expression of heterologous genes in target tissues. Promoters inducible by photodynamic therapy or heat are used to express genes of interest under conditions of heating or Photodynamic Therapy-(PDT-) induced oxidative stress. Selective and temporal expression of heterologous genes (such as cytokines, toxins, tumor suppressor genes, antisense molecules and anti-angiogenic factors) are of significant therapeutic benefit in the treatment of tumors, vascular proliferation and tissue hypertrophy. Gene therapy targeted by laser induced heating, other heating sources (such as microwave, ultrasound or radiofrequency induced currents), or PDT enhances treatment effectiveness by inducing expression of therapeutic genes in a controlled and localized manner. |