ZFN-758

ZFN-758 is a gene-editing therapeutic based on zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) technology, specifically engineered to target and cleave the E7 oncogene of Human Papillomavirus type 18 (HPV18). Developed by researchers at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology, ZFN-758 is designed for the treatment of HPV18-positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). The mechanism involves ZFN-mediated double-strand breaks in the viral E7 DNA, leading to the disruption of E7 oncoprotein expression. Since E7 is essential for the maintenance of the transformed phenotype and viral persistence in HPV-infected cells, its disruption induces type-specific apoptosis and inhibits the growth of precancerous cells. The drug is formulated as a suppository for localized vaginal administration to treat lesions without invasive surgery.