ONCR-1

ONCR-1 is an investigational oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) developed by Oncorus. It is engineered to selectively replicate within and destroy tumor cells (oncolysis) while sparing healthy tissue. The viral genome is modified to express two specific transgenes: Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and UL16 Binding Protein 3 (ULBP3). MMP9 is intended to degrade the dense extracellular matrix of the tumor, facilitating better viral penetration and increasing the infiltration of immune cells. ULBP3 acts as a ligand for the NKG2D receptor, which is expressed on Natural Killer (NK) cells and certain T cells, thereby enhancing the recruitment and activation of the innate and adaptive immune systems against the tumor. This multi-pronged approach aims to turn "cold" tumors "hot" and generate a systemic antitumor immune response.