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Updated: Sep 19, 2025

Paramyxoviruses for Tumor-targeted Immunomodulation: Design and Evaluation Ex Vivo
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Oncolytic Virus as a New Treatment Technology in Cancer

Mohammed Asiri1, Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem Al-Hetty2, Reham Abdullah Al-Dhelaan3

  • 1Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.

Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology
|June 16, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are engineered viruses that selectively destroy cancer cells, offering a promising new cancer treatment. Research is advancing OV therapies to overcome challenges and improve patient outcomes in various cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Immunotherapy

Background:

  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are emerging as potent antineoplastic agents.
  • OVs selectively target and destroy cancer cells while sparing normal tissues.
  • Their unique mechanisms exploit cancer cell biology for tumor regression and immune stimulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the mechanisms of OV action against cancer cells.
  • To review advancements in genetically engineered OVs for enhanced therapeutic effects.
  • To discuss challenges and ongoing research in OV therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on oncolytic virus mechanisms and applications.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data regarding safety and efficacy.
  • Exploration of genetic engineering strategies for OV improvement.
  • Discussion of combination therapies and delivery enhancement.

Main Results:

  • OVs induce tumor regression and potent immune responses.
  • Genetically modified OVs can deliver therapeutic genes and immune-stimulatory payloads.
  • Clinical trials show manageable safety profiles and potential for durable responses.
  • OVs promote immunogenic cell death and establish long-term immune memory.

Conclusions:

  • Oncolytic virus therapy holds transformative potential for cancer treatment.
  • Overcoming challenges like the tumor microenvironment and identifying biomarkers is crucial.
  • Integration with existing treatments, like checkpoint inhibitors, can improve outcomes.
  • OV therapy is poised to become a cornerstone in future cancer treatment strategies.
Keywords:
Therapeutic Protein Vectorsantineoplastic mechanismcanceroncolytic virus

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