Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Paramyxoviruses for Tumor-targeted Immunomodulation: Design and Evaluation Ex Vivo
Published on: January 7, 2019
Naturally occurring viruses for the treatment of cancer
M Scot Roberts1, William S Groene, Robert M Lorence
1Wellstat Biologics Corporation, 930 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA. sroberts@wellstatbiologics.com
Abstract:
The use of naturally occurring viruses in the treatment of cancer is not new, and reports describing the administration of viruses to cancer patients date back more than fifty years. The advent of molecular biology and the arrival of biologics to the cancer therapy arena have now set the stage for a fresh look at the potential of these agents. These viruses have the potential to specifically target tumor cells, and insights into the molecular mechanisms of this selectivity are beginning to emerge.
Insights
Naturally occurring viruses offer a promising avenue for cancer treatment. Research is exploring their potential to specifically target tumor cells, leveraging advancements in molecular biology for novel therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The use of viruses for cancer treatment has a history spanning over fifty years.
- Recent advancements in molecular biology and biologics have renewed interest in viral therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the potential of naturally occurring viruses as cancer therapeutics.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying viral selectivity for tumor cells.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical data on viral administration in cancer patients.
- Analysis of current molecular biology insights into viral-tumor cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Viruses demonstrate potential for specific targeting of tumor cells.
- Emerging insights into the molecular basis of this tumor-specific activity.
Conclusions:
- Naturally occurring viruses represent a viable and evolving strategy in cancer therapy.
- Further research into viral selectivity mechanisms can optimize oncolytic virotherapy.
Related Concept Videos
Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Tumor Immunotherapy
Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers
Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers

