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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
12:42
Paramyxoviruses for Tumor-targeted Immunomodulation: Design and Evaluation Ex Vivo
Published on: January 7, 2019
Oncolytic virotherapy reaches adolescence
Adrienne M Hammill1, Joseph Conner, Timothy P Cripe
1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
Pediatric Blood & Cancer
|August 25, 2010
Summary
Oncolytic virotherapy uses viruses to target and kill cancer cells. This approach, with a long history, is now advancing rapidly with new clinical trials, including for pediatric cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- The concept of using viruses to treat cancer dates back over a century, inspired by spontaneous remissions in infected cancer patients.
- Early research in the mid-20th century showed promise but was hindered by limitations in scientific understanding and ethical concerns, leading to a decline in enthusiasm.
Observation:
- Oncolytic virotherapy involves using lytic viruses that naturally kill cells during replication to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Historical medical reports and early animal and human studies (1920s-1970s) indicated potential antitumor effects.
Findings:
- Despite early setbacks, oncolytic virotherapy is experiencing a resurgence due to significant advancements in molecular biology, virology, and immunology.
- Recent preclinical and adult clinical trials have shown encouraging results, paving the way for new pediatric trials.
Implications:
- Modern oncolytic virotherapy leverages scientific progress to overcome historical challenges, offering a renewed hope for cancer treatment.
- The field is expanding with ongoing research and clinical trials, particularly focusing on novel agents for pediatric cancer patients.
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