JX-594 + irinotecan

JX-594 + irinotecan is an investigational combination therapy for cancer that pairs two distinct agents: - **JX-594 (Pexa-Vec, pexastimogene devacirepvec)** is a genetically engineered oncolytic vaccinia virus designed to selectively infect and lyse cancer cells. It has been modified to express human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and β-galactosidase, enhancing tumor-specific immune responses. The virus preferentially replicates in tumor cells due to their high thymidine kinase activity and defects in interferon signaling pathways. Its mechanisms include direct oncolysis of tumor cells, induction of anti-tumor immunity via GM-CSF expression, and disruption of tumor vasculature[6][8][9]. - **Irinotecan** is a small molecule chemotherapeutic agent that inhibits topoisomerase I, leading to DNA damage and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells. The combination has been studied primarily in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who are refractory or intolerant to standard therapies. Early-phase clinical trials have evaluated the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of this regimen[1][3][4].

Brand names

Pexa-Vec

Other names

JX-594 + irinotecan combination