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Updated: May 31, 2026
12:42
Paramyxoviruses for Tumor-targeted Immunomodulation: Design and Evaluation Ex Vivo
Published on: January 7, 2019
Oncolytic viruses in radiation oncology
Yann Touchefeu1, Georges Vassaux, Kevin J Harrington
1The Institute of Cancer Research, Section of Cell and Molecular Biology, London, UK.
Summary
Oncolytic viruses and radiation therapy show synergistic anticancer effects. This review explores their combined therapeutic potential and the role of DNA damage response in enhancing tumor cell death.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Oncolytic viruses are emerging cancer therapeutics.
- External beam radiotherapy is a standard DNA-damaging cancer treatment.
- Combining these therapies shows promise in preclinical studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of combining oncolytic viruses and radiation therapy.
- To explore the mechanistic basis of this combination therapy.
- To emphasize the role of DNA damage response.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical data (in vitro and in vivo studies).
- Analysis of completed Phase I and II clinical trials.
- Focus on mechanistic interactions between viruses and radiation.
Main Results:
- Combinations demonstrate additional or synergistic antitumor effects.
- Oncolytic viruses may sensitize tumors to radiation.
- Radiation can enhance viral oncolysis and tumor cell death.
Conclusions:
- Oncolytic virus and radiation therapy combinations are promising for cancer treatment.
- Further clinical trials (Phase III) are warranted.
- Understanding the DNA damage response is crucial for optimizing these therapies.
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