David Pepin, PhD
Massachusetts General Hospital
AAV9 gene therapy using a novel engineered MIS to treat ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer tumors are made up mostly of cells that respond well to chemotherapy, but a minority of stem-like cells survive treatment and ultimately lead to chemoresistant recurrence. However, this type of cancer stem cell is inhibited by Mullerian Inhibiting Substance (MIS). Dr. Pepin is evaluating a modified version of MIS, which has been engineered to have greater potency, as well as an alternative delivery mechanism using viral gene therapy, in preclinical trials. The goal of the study is to develop gene therapy as a supplement to the current standard of care and would offer permanent protection from chemoresistant recurrences after initial surgery and chemotherapy.