oncolytic herpes simplex virus PTEN-L (oHSV-P10)

oHSV-P10 is an oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) genetically engineered to express a translational variant of the tumor suppressor PTEN, called PTEN-L, which can be secreted and taken up by neighboring cells[3]. This virus is designed to target glioblastoma (GBM) by reducing the enrichment of glioma stem cells (GSCs), which are thought to contribute to therapy resistance and tumor recurrence[1][3]. Mechanistically, oHSV-P10 decreases GSC populations by inhibiting the IL6/JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway, leading to reduced expression of stemness markers like Sox2 and Nestin, and increased differentiation markers like GFAP[1][3][5]. The virus also impairs DNA damage repair in tumor cells, thereby sensitizing them to radiation therapy[1][3]. Preclinical studies show that oHSV-P10, when combined with radiation, improves survival in animal models of GBM[1][3]. The virus is considered a next-generation oHSV and is under development for clinical translation[3].

Other names

PTEN-L-expressing oncolytic herpes simplex virus