Oncolytic virus delivery: from nano-pharmacodynamics to enhanced oncolytic effect

Raquel Yokoda1, Bolni M Nagalo1, Brent Vernon2

  • 1Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale.

Oncolytic Virotherapy
|November 30, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic virus (OV) delivery faces challenges from immunity and the tumor environment. Novel strategies like nanoparticles and image-guided methods aim to improve OV delivery for enhanced cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) show promise in cancer therapy but face significant delivery barriers.
  • Host immunity, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and abnormal tumor vascularity impede efficient OV vector delivery.
  • Overcoming these barriers is crucial for maximizing the therapeutic potential of OVs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the key barriers hindering effective oncolytic virus delivery.
  • To discuss current and emerging strategies for enhancing OV delivery and tumor penetration.
  • To explore future perspectives in active delivery methods for improved oncolytic effects.

Main Methods:

  • Review of novel approaches for enhanced OV delivery, including nanoparticles, immunomodulatory agents, and viral-particle ligands.
  • Discussion of TME modulation strategies to improve viral propagation and penetration.
  • Highlighting advanced delivery techniques such as ultrasound-mediated delivery, magnetic targeting, and photodynamic virotherapy.
  • Consideration of viral genome modifications to enhance tumoral penetration.

Main Results:

  • Several innovative strategies are being evaluated to improve OV delivery, including bioengineered nanoparticles and image-guided delivery systems.
  • Techniques like ultrasound-mediated cavitation, magnetic viral complexes, and focused ultrasound infusions show potential for enhanced extravasation and targeted delivery.
  • TME modulation and viral genome engineering are actively being pursued to improve tumor penetration and viral efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Effective delivery remains a critical challenge for oncolytic virus therapy.
  • A combination of bioengineering, advanced delivery techniques, and TME manipulation is essential for optimizing OV efficacy.
  • Future research should focus on developing robust active delivery systems to achieve superior oncolytic effects.