METHODS FOR PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF CANCER

摘要

Methods for inhibiting cancer cell growth are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of increasing the amount of a metabolic precursor of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D ("1,25(OH)2)D") or an analog or a derivative thereof available to a target cell. In a preferred embodiment, the precursor is 25-hydroxyvitamin D. In another embodiment, the method comprises administering a gene coding for 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1 alpha -hydroxylase ("1 alpha -OHase") with or without a gene coding for the vitamin D receptor to the target cell to increase production of 1,25(OH)2D or analog thereof within the target cell, thereby inhibiting cellular proliferation. In another embodiment of the invention, the method of administering a gene coding for 1 alpha -OHase with or without a gene coding for the vitamin D receptor to a target cell or tissue is used in the treatment of hyperproliferative cell disorders, disorders of hair growth, and disorders of calcium and bone metabolism in animals.