Reversible electroporation for cancer therapy

Abstract

Reversible electroporation refers to the use of high voltage electrical pulses on tissues to increase cell membrane permeability. It allows targeted delivery of high concentrations of chemotherapeutic agents including cisplatin and bleomycin, a process known as electrochemotherapy (ECT). It can also be used to deliver toxic concentrations of calcium and gene therapies that stimulate an anti-tumour immune response. ECT was validated for palliative treatment of cutaneous tumours. Evidence to date shows a mean objective response rate of ∼80% in these patients. Regression of non-treated lesions has also been demonstrated, theorised to be from an in-situ vaccination effect. Advances in electrode development have also allowed treatment of deep-seated metastatic lesions and primary tumours, with safety demonstrated in vivo. Calcium electroporation and combination immunotherapy or immunogene electrotransfer is also feasible, but research is limited. Adverse events of ECT are minimal; however, general anaesthesia is often necessary, and improvements in modelling capabilities and electrode design are required to enable sufficient electrical coverage. International collaboration between preclinical researchers, oncologists and interventionalists is required to identify the most effective combination therapies, to optimise procedural factors, and to expand use, indications and assessment of reversible electroporation. Registries with standardised data collection methods may facilitate this.