HR522

HR522 is an attenuated, replication-competent oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) mutant developed for the treatment of solid tumors. It is specifically engineered to induce syncytium formation (cell-to-cell fusion) in infected cells, a characteristic that facilitates the spread of the virus within a tumor mass and enhances its cytopathic effect compared to non-syncytial strains. HR522 also expresses the lacZ reporter gene, allowing for the visualization of viral infection and replication. In therapeutic applications, HR522 is often used in combination with the prodrug ganciclovir (GCV). The viral thymidine kinase (TK) activity retained or expressed by the virus converts GCV into a cytotoxic metabolite that inhibits DNA synthesis, leading to apoptosis in both the infected cells and neighboring uninfected cells through a bystander effect. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its potential in treating malignancies such as ovarian cancer and brain tumors.

Other names

HSV-1 mutant HR522HSV1 mutant HR522HSV 1 mutant HR522