Delivering RNAi therapeutics with non-viral technology: a promising strategy for prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer in men of the United States and Europe, and although current treatments have efficacy in treating primary prostate cancer, they are associated with a decreased quality of life and are ineffective in treating the metastatic disease. The identification of oncogenes associated with the formation, proliferation, and metastasis of prostate cancer has presented promising targets for RNA interference (RNAi)-based gene therapy. However, the potential of RNAi as a successful therapeutic depends on effective delivery. In this review, we discuss the potential of targeting oncogenes implicated in prostate cancer with RNAi-based therapeutics using non-viral bioresponsive ‘smart’ delivery systems that work in harmony with the physiological and biochemical environments of prostate tumours.