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Published on: September 1, 2018
Oncolytic Viral Therapy for Malignant Glioma and Their Application in Clinical Practice
Madison L Shoaf1, Annick Desjardins2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, PO Box 3624, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
Abstract:
Glioblastoma is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults and outcomes remain poor despite the current standard of care multimodal therapy. Oncolytic virotherapy utilizes engineered viruses to exert an anti-tumor effect via both direct oncolysis and stimulation of an immune response within the tumor microenvironment, turning tumors from "cold" to "hot." This has shown promise as a novel therapeutic modality and attempts to circumvent the challenges associated with traditional treatments. Many oncolytic viruses have been investigated in completed and ongoing clinical trials and while safety has been demonstrated, clinical outcomes have been variable, often with only a subgroup of patients showing a significant response. This review summarizes these studies, addresses relevant technical aspects of oncolytic virus administration, and highlights practical considerations to assist providers in appropriately caring for patients treated with oncolytic virotherapy. Additionally, future directions within the field that may help to maximize efficacy of this modality are discussed.
Insights
Oncolytic virotherapy shows promise for treating glioblastoma by using engineered viruses to fight tumors and stimulate immune responses. This review explores clinical trials, administration, and future directions for this novel cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Virology
Background:
- Glioblastoma is a common and aggressive brain tumor with poor outcomes.
- Current multimodal therapy offers limited success.
- Oncolytic virotherapy presents a novel approach to cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical trials of oncolytic virotherapy for glioblastoma.
- To discuss technical aspects and practical considerations for oncolytic virus administration.
- To explore future directions for enhancing treatment efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Review of completed and ongoing clinical trials involving oncolytic viruses.
- Analysis of safety and efficacy data from these trials.
- Discussion of viral administration techniques and patient care strategies.
Main Results:
- Oncolytic virotherapy has demonstrated safety in clinical trials.
- Clinical outcomes have been variable, with responses in subgroups of patients.
- The approach aims to convert "cold" tumors to "hot" by stimulating an immune response.
Conclusions:
- Oncolytic virotherapy is a promising therapeutic modality for glioblastoma.
- Further research is needed to optimize treatment efficacy and patient selection.
- Addressing technical and practical challenges is crucial for successful implementation.
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