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Oncolytic Viruses in Ovarian Cancer: Where Do We Stand? A Narrative Review

Fulvio Borella1, Marco Carosso1, Maria Pia Chiparo1

  • 1Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Departments of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 26, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) show promise for treating ovarian cancer by targeting cancer cells and boosting immunity. Combining OVs with other therapies may improve patient survival rates.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Ovarian cancer (OC) is a leading cause of gynecologic cancer death with limited treatment options.
  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are a novel therapeutic strategy that selectively destroy cancer cells and activate anti-tumor immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of oncolytic virus therapy for ovarian cancer.
  • To discuss current research, challenges, and future directions for OV applications in OC management.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical studies demonstrating OV efficacy in ovarian cancer models.
  • Analysis of early-phase clinical trial data on OV safety and efficacy.
  • Exploration of combination strategies involving OVs and other cancer treatments.

Main Results:

  • Preclinical studies show significant tumor regression and improved survival with OVs in OC models.
  • Early clinical trials indicate a good safety profile for OVs, but modest survival benefits.
  • Combination therapies, including with immune checkpoint inhibitors, are under investigation to enhance efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Oncolytic viruses represent a promising avenue for ovarian cancer treatment.
  • Further research and clinical trials are needed to optimize OV therapy and combination strategies for improved patient outcomes.
Keywords:
adenovirusherpes simplex virusmyxoma virusoncolytic virusovarian cancervaccinia virusvesicular stomatitis virusvirus

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