Objective To explore the potential use and the effect of adenovirus-mediated interleukin 24 gene (Ad5F35-IL24) therapy for malignant glioma.   Methods  After Ad5F35-IL24 was transfected into human malignant glioma cell line U251

we observed the growth of U251 cells. Ad5F35-IL24 was injected into tumor nodules of BALB/c mouse models of human glioma

and the tumor growth was observed. The apoptosis of tumor cells and their Bax/Bcl-2 expressions were detected with flow cytometer.   Results  The expression of IL-24 proteins were expressed highly after transfection of Ad5F35-IL24. The growth of U251 cells and xenograft tumors was suppressed obviously

and their apoptosis and Bax/Bcl-2 expression were significantly elevated.   Conclusion  IL-24 induces growth suppression and apoptosis in human glioma cells U251. Adenovirus-mediated IL-24 gene therapy is a potential effective approach in the treatment of malignant glioma.