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Paramyxoviruses for Tumor-targeted Immunomodulation: Design and Evaluation Ex Vivo
Published on: January 7, 2019
Advances in the design and development of oncolytic measles viruses
Brian Hutzen1, Corey Raffel2, Adam W Studebaker1
1Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
Abstract:
A successful oncolytic virus is one that selectively propagates and destroys cancerous tissue without causing excessive damage to the normal surrounding tissue. Oncolytic measles virus (MV) is one such virus that exhibits this characteristic and thus has rapidly emerged as a potentially useful anticancer modality. Derivatives of the Edmonston MV vaccine strain possess a remarkable safety record in humans. Promising results in preclinical animal models and evidence of biological activity in early phase trials contribute to the enthusiasm. Genetic modifications have enabled MV to evolve from a vaccine agent to a potential anticancer therapy. Specifically, alterations of the MV genome have led to improved tumor selectivity and delivery, therapeutic potency, and immune system modulation. In this article, we will review the advancements that have been made in the design and development of MV that have led to its use as a cancer therapy. In addition, we will discuss the evidence supporting its use, as well as the challenges associated with MV as a potential cancer therapeutic.
Insights
Oncolytic measles virus (MV) shows promise as an anticancer therapy by selectively destroying cancer cells. Genetic modifications enhance its tumor targeting, potency, and immune response for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncolytic virotherapy
- Cancer research
- Viral oncology
Background:
- Oncolytic viruses selectively target and destroy cancer cells.
- Measles virus (MV), particularly Edmonston strain derivatives, has a strong safety profile in humans.
- MV is emerging as a promising anticancer therapeutic modality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advancements in the design and development of measles virus for cancer therapy.
- To discuss the evidence supporting MV's use in cancer treatment.
- To outline the challenges associated with MV as a cancer therapeutic.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on oncolytic measles virus.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical trial data.
- Examination of genetic modification strategies for MV.
Main Results:
- Genetically modified MV exhibits enhanced tumor selectivity, delivery, and potency.
- MV demonstrates biological activity in early-phase clinical trials.
- Modified MV can modulate the immune system for therapeutic benefit.
Conclusions:
- Oncolytic measles virus represents a rapidly advancing field in cancer therapy.
- Genetic engineering has significantly improved MV's potential as an anticancer agent.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize MV-based cancer treatments.
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