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The Clinical Advances of Oncolytic Viruses in Cancer Immunotherapy

Mohammed A Zolaly1, Waleed Mahallawi2, Zakaria Y Khawaji3

  • 1Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Taibah University, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, SAU.

Cureus
|July 24, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic viruses, engineered to target cancer cells and stimulate immune responses, show promise in advanced cancer treatment. Clinical trials are evaluating their effectiveness and safety, alone or with standard therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Virology

Background:

  • Oncolytic viruses represent a novel approach in cancer immunotherapy.
  • These viruses are genetically engineered to selectively target and destroy cancer cells, while also stimulating an anti-tumor immune response.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the latest clinical applications of oncolytic viruses in cancer treatment.
  • To summarize the efficacy and safety data from various phases of clinical trials.

Main Methods:

  • Genetic engineering techniques to confer oncolytic activity (e.g., capsid modification, cytokine arming with IL-12).
  • Assessment of clinical outcomes using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST).
  • Evaluation in combination with standard treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.

Main Results:

  • Oncolytic virotherapy is being investigated for advanced cancers.
  • Clinical studies assess safety and effectiveness in diverse cancer types.
  • Combination therapies aim to enhance treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Oncolytic viruses offer a promising therapeutic strategy in oncology.
  • Further clinical evaluation is crucial to establish their role in cancer treatment paradigms.
Keywords:
adenovirusescancer immunotherapyherpes simplex virusesoncolytic virusesvirotherapy

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