ASP9801

ASP9801 is a genetically engineered oncolytic virus developed for cancer therapy. It is designed to be administered by direct intratumoral injection, where it selectively infects and replicates within cancer cells while sparing normal healthy cells[1][2]. The mechanism of action involves both direct lysis of tumor cells and stimulation of the immune system. ASP9801 stimulates the expression of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-7 (IL-7), which are cytokines known to enhance antitumor immunity[3][4]. By promoting these cytokines, ASP9801 acts as an immunostimulant in addition to its cell-killing effects. The drug has been investigated primarily in advanced or metastatic solid tumors, including bladder, colon, rectal, cervical, skin cancers (including melanoma), prostate, stomach, and testicular cancers[5]. Development has reached phase 1 clinical trials as both a single agent and in combination with pembrolizumab (a PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor)[2][4].