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Oncolytic viruses in cutaneous oncology: Mechanisms, clinical applications, and future directions

Goranit Sakunchotpanit1, Mihir K Patil2, Ruhi Kanwar3

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.

Advances in Cancer Research
|June 5, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are innovative cancer treatments that destroy cancer cells. This chapter explores OVs in skin cancer, detailing their mechanisms, uses, and future potential.

Area of Science:

  • Oncolytic virotherapy
  • Cutaneous oncology
  • Molecular oncology

Background:

  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are emerging anti-cancer agents.
  • OVs selectively infect and lyse malignant cells, sparing healthy tissues.
  • Viruses can be naturally tumor-targeting or genetically modified for specific antigen recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of oncolytic viruses in cutaneous oncology.
  • To discuss the molecular mechanisms of OV action.
  • To review clinical applications and future directions for OVs in skin cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Review of molecular mechanisms of OV targeting and lysis.
  • Analysis of clinical data for OVs in various skin cancer types.
  • Exploration of future research and therapeutic strategies for OVs.

Main Results:

  • OVs demonstrate selective lysis of cancer cells.
  • Genetically engineered OVs enhance tumor targeting capabilities.
  • Clinical applications show promise across diverse cutaneous malignancies.

Conclusions:

  • Oncolytic viruses represent a promising therapeutic strategy in cutaneous oncology.
  • Understanding OV molecular mechanisms is key to optimizing treatment efficacy.
  • Continued research and clinical trials are essential for advancing OV-based therapies in skin cancer.
Keywords:
Basal cell carcinomaMelanomaOncolytic virotherapySquamous cell carcinoma

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