LIVP-IL15-RFP

LIVP-IL15-RFP is an experimental oncolytic virus derived from the Lister-Institute-Vero-Passage (LIVP) strain of the vaccinia virus. It is genetically engineered to express human interleukin-15 (IL-15) and a red fluorescent protein (RFP) reporter. The therapeutic strategy utilizes the virus's natural ability to selectively infect and lyse tumor cells (oncolysis) while simultaneously delivering IL-15 directly into the tumor microenvironment. IL-15 is a cytokine that plays a critical role in the activation, survival, and proliferation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells. By localized expression of IL-15, LIVP-IL15-RFP aims to overcome the immunosuppressive nature of tumors and stimulate a robust anti-tumor immune response. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that this virus, particularly when used in combination with a companion virus expressing the IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα) subunit, can lead to significant tumor regression and improved survival in models of breast and colon cancer.