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Gene therapy of adhesive disease. Myth or reality?

https://doi.org/10.18705/3034-7270-2025-1-3-15-19

EDN: LNVGKY

Abstract

Pathological adhesion formation in the abdominal cavity following surgical interventions remains an unresolved problem, leading to intestinal obstruction, chronic pain, and infertility. Despite existing preventive methods, an effective solution has not yet been found. Gene therapy approaches represent promising developments that target key molecular mechanisms of fibrosis and inflammation. Experimental studies demonstrate the potential of this direction. Suppression of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) reduces fibroblast activation. Activation of antifibrotic factors decreases collagen deposition and stimulates fibrinolysis. Gene editing modulates inflammation and angiogenesis. Thus, gene therapy could become a breakthrough in preventing adhesive disease but requires further research to address immunogenicity, controlled long-term efficacy, and other safety concerns.

About the Authors

B. V. Sigua
Almazov National Research Medical Center of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Sigua Badri V. – Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Department of General Surgery.

St. Petersburg



E. S. Oshchepkova
Almazov National Research Medical Center of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Oshchepkova Ekaterina S. – Assistant of the Department of General Surgery at the Institute of Medical Education.

St. Petersburg



P. A. Kotkov
Almazov National Research Medical Center of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Kotkov Pavel A. – Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of General Surgery at the Institute of Medical Education.

St. Petersburg



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Review

For citations:


Sigua B.V., Oshchepkova E.S., Kotkov P.A. Gene therapy of adhesive disease. Myth or reality? Russian surgical journal. 2025;1(3):15-19. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.18705/3034-7270-2025-1-3-15-19. EDN: LNVGKY

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ISSN 3034-7270 (Print)
ISSN 3033-5604 (Online)