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Published on: January 7, 2019
Oncolytic viruses as experimental treatments for malignant gliomas: using a scourge to treat a devil
Franz J Zemp1, Juan Carlos Corredor, Xueqing Lun
1Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Southern Alberta Cancer Research Institute, Clark H. Smith Brain Tumor Center, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Abstract:
The concept of oncolytic viral therapy has a century-old history, but only within the last 20 years have oncolytic viruses been considered for the treatment of brain cancers. Viruses such as herpes, measles, and vaccinia have all been known to cause devastating cases of neurological disease in humans, yet these 'scourges' are now being harnessed in such a way that they prove very useful as cancer therapeutics. There have been 8 formal clinical trials and 3 case studies using oncolytic viruses to treat malignant glioma patients. Although some success has been reached with oncolytic therapy, overall it has fallen short of expectations. In this review we analyze the results of these trials and bring to light some of the limitations and pitfalls of this therapy, as well as present some promising preclinical work that has been proposed to circumvent such problems.
Insights
Oncolytic virus therapy shows promise for brain cancers, but clinical trials reveal limitations. Future research aims to overcome these challenges for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Oncolytic viral therapy, using viruses to target cancer cells, has a long history.
- Recent decades have seen a focus on applying this therapy to brain cancers, particularly malignant gliomas.
- Viruses like herpes, measles, and vaccinia, historically causing neurological disease, are now explored as cancer therapeutics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical application of oncolytic viruses in treating malignant glioma.
- To analyze the outcomes and limitations of existing clinical trials and case studies.
- To highlight promising preclinical strategies for enhancing oncolytic virotherapy efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 8 formal clinical trials and 3 case studies involving oncolytic viruses for malignant glioma.
- Review of preclinical research aimed at addressing therapeutic challenges.
- Synthesis of findings to identify limitations and future directions.
Main Results:
- Some success has been observed with oncolytic virotherapy in malignant glioma patients.
- Overall clinical outcomes have not fully met expectations, indicating significant challenges.
- Preclinical studies offer potential solutions to current therapeutic pitfalls.
Conclusions:
- Oncolytic virotherapy holds potential for brain cancer treatment but faces hurdles.
- Further research and development are necessary to optimize efficacy and overcome limitations.
- Innovative preclinical approaches may pave the way for more effective oncolytic treatments.
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