Small interfering RNA (siRNA) based therapies for cancer treatment: A special focus on cervical cancer
Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapies are rapidly advancing as a novel approach in cancer treatment by selectively silencing oncogenes and disease-associated genes via the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway. By harnessing the body's natural cellular machinery to degrade specific messenger RNA (mRNAs), siRNA therapies prevent the production of harmful proteins with remarkable precision, offering reduced off-target effects compared to conventional chemotherapy or radiation. This review emphasizes the growing importance of siRNA in various cancers, particularly cervical cancer, which is often linked to persistent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections. It discusses how siRNA therapies target key viral oncogenes like E6 and E7, reactivating tumour suppressor pathways, modulating immune responses and improving sensitivity to chemotherapy. In addition, the review explores recent advancements in siRNA delivery strategies such as lipid nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, dendrimers and exosomes that address major challenges like nuclease degradation, limited cellular uptake and immune activation. The clinical potential of siRNA, including its integration with personalized medicine and ongoing clinical trials, is evaluated, alongside a critical analysis of current limitations such as immunogenicity, delivery efficiency and manufacturing complexities. Altogether, the review highlights both the promises and challenges of siRNA-based therapies and points towards future directions needed to realize their full clinical potential in oncology.