Description: Molecular therapies are an innovative approach in the field of medicine that uses molecular biology techniques to develop new therapeutic strategies. These therapies focus on manipulating biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and other cellular components, to treat diseases at the molecular level. Unlike conventional treatments that often focus on alleviating symptoms, molecular therapies aim to address the underlying causes of diseases, especially in the case of genetic disorders and certain types of cancer. This approach allows for the personalization of treatment, adapting to the specific genetic and molecular characteristics of each patient. Bioinformatics plays a crucial role in this context, as it facilitates the analysis of large volumes of biological and genomic data, enabling the identification of therapeutic targets and optimizing drug design. In summary, molecular therapies represent a significant advance in modern medicine, offering the promise of more effective and specific treatments that can transform the way various diseases are addressed.
History: Molecular therapies began to take shape in the 1970s with the development of molecular biology techniques, such as gene cloning and DNA sequencing. An important milestone was the creation of the first gene therapy in 1990, when a patient with adenosine deaminase (ADA) deficiency was treated by introducing a functional gene. Since then, the field has rapidly evolved, driven by advances in genomics and bioinformatics, enabling the development of targeted and personalized therapies.
Uses: Molecular therapies are primarily used in the treatment of genetic diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases. They allow for the modification of defective genes, the introduction of therapeutic genes, and the creation of drugs that act on specific molecular targets. Additionally, they are being explored in the fields of regenerative medicine and cell therapy.
Examples: A notable example of molecular therapy is the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, which act by blocking specific molecular signals that promote cancer cell growth. Another case is gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, where efforts are made to correct the genetic defect responsible for the disease.
