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Zika virus and brain cancer: Can Zika be an effective treatment for brain cancer? A systematic review
Mateus Gonçalves de Sena Barbosa1, Beatriz Rodrigues Messias2, Rafael Trindade Tatit2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Atenas University Center, Passos, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Introduction:
Many studies have highlighted the use of oncolytic viruses as a new class of therapeutic agents for central nervous system (CNS) tumors, especially glioblastomas (GMB). Zika Virus (ZIKV) proteins targeted to specific stem cells have been studied in vitro and animal models with promising results.
Materials And Methods:
A systematic review was evaluated the efficacy and safety of the ZIKV use for CNS tumors treatment. Data were extracted and the in vivo studies were evaluated using the Robins-I tool. We assessed bias in each study using criteria such as selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, attrition bias, reporting bias, and others. According to Cochrane guidelines, bias was classified as high, low, or uncertain. High bias occurred when studies did not meet the criteria. Low bias was assigned when criteria were clearly met. Uncertain bias reflected insufficient information for a clear classification.
Results:
The 14 included studies shown that ZIKV reduced cell viability or inhibited the growth, proliferation of glioma stem cells (GSCs), and Bcl2 expression - which could potentially enhance the effect of chemotherapy/radiotherapy; caused cytopathic effects, induced tumor cell damage, manifested oncolytic properties, and even selectively safely killed GSCs; ultimately, it led to significant tumor remission and enhanced long-term survival through enhanced T-cell response.
Conclusions:
Although current evidence suggests ZIKV as a promising treatment for CNS tumors and may improve survival when combined with surgery and radiotherapy. Despite limited human evidence, it shows potential benefits. Further research is needed to confirm safety, efficacy, and optimize treatment in humans.
Insights
Zika Virus (ZIKV) shows promise in treating central nervous system (CNS) tumors, particularly glioblastomas. This oncolytic virus effectively targets and eliminates glioma stem cells, potentially improving patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Oncolytic viruses are emerging as a novel therapeutic strategy for central nervous system (CNS) tumors, including glioblastomas (GMB).
- Zika Virus (ZIKV) has demonstrated potential in preclinical studies targeting cancer stem cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the efficacy and safety of Zika Virus (ZIKV) for treating CNS tumors.
- To evaluate the bias of in vivo studies using the Robins-I tool.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 14 studies on ZIKV for CNS tumor treatment.
- Bias assessment of in vivo studies using Cochrane guidelines (Robins-I tool).
Main Results:
- ZIKV reduced glioma stem cell (GSC) viability, proliferation, and Bcl2 expression.
- ZIKV induced cytopathic effects, tumor cell damage, and selective GSC killing.
- Significant tumor remission and enhanced long-term survival were observed, potentially through T-cell response.
Conclusions:
- ZIKV presents a promising therapeutic option for CNS tumors, possibly enhancing outcomes with surgery and radiotherapy.
- Further research is essential to validate ZIKV's safety and efficacy in human clinical trials.
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