Multi-modal combination gene therapy for malignant glioma using replication-defective HSV vectors

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) may be modified to produce a non-pathogenic vector that is capable of delivering multiple transgenes simultaneously to cells, both safely and efficiently. We have exploited this property to develop viruses that target glioblastoma, a malignancy that is currently associated with a poor prognosis. Using rationally selected combinations of therapeutic transgenes coupled with gamma-knife radiotherapy, the ablation of experimental tumours in animal models has been demonstrated. Combination gene therapy using replication-defective HSV vectors represents a promising and exciting approach to tackling malignancy in the CNS.