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Commentary on oncolytic viruses: past, present, and future

Christopher Larson1, Bryan Oronsky2, Tony R Reid1

  • 1EpicentRx Inc, La Jolla, California, USA.

Journal for Immunotherapy of Cancer
|December 22, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) show promise for cancer treatment but have faced declining interest. This commentary addresses misconceptions and offers reasons for renewed optimism in anticancer virotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) experienced peak popularity in the early 2000s and a resurgence in 2015 with FDA approval of talimogene laherparepvec.
  • Despite pharmaceutical development, OVs have largely fallen out of favor, entering a 'trough of disillusionment'.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To enumerate and address misconceptions surrounding oncolytic virus therapy.
  • To provide a balanced perspective on the current state of anticancer virotherapy.
  • To identify reasons for optimism in the field of OVs.

Main Methods:

  • This is a commentary, not an experimental study.
  • Analysis of historical trends and perceptions in oncolytic virus research.
  • Discussion of current challenges and future directions in anticancer virotherapy.

Main Results:

  • The field of oncolytic virotherapy is characterized by specific conceptions, perceptions, and misconceptions.
  • Several factors contribute to the current 'trough of disillusionment' for OVs.
  • Despite challenges, there are grounds for optimism regarding the future of OV-based cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Addressing misconceptions is crucial for advancing oncolytic virus therapy.
  • Renewed interest and development in OVs are warranted.
  • Anticancer virotherapy holds significant potential for future cancer treatment strategies.
Keywords:
lymphocyte activationoncolytic viruses

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