Using Genetically Modified Microvascular Free Flaps to Deliver Local Cancer Immunotherapy with Minimal Systemic Toxicity

Abstract

Using genetically modified free flaps, the authors were able to deliver IL-12 directly into the local environment of a tumor and suppress its growth without eliciting toxic systemic effects. This technique could provide valuable adjuvant treatment after oncologic surgery for soft-tissue cancers, with the transduced flap reconstructing the defect and supplying a therapeutic agent to the resected tumor bed.