pelareorep (Oncolytics Biotech Inc.)

Pelareorep is an intravenously or intratumorally administered oncolytic virus consisting of a non-enveloped, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) wild-type reovirus (mammalian orthoreovirus type 3 Dearing strain). It selectively replicates in cancer cells with activated Ras signaling pathways, which are prevalent in many human cancers. In normal cells, the double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is activated upon viral infection, leading to the phosphorylation of eIF-2alpha and the subsequent inhibition of viral protein synthesis. However, in Ras-transformed cells, PKR activation is blocked, allowing the reovirus to replicate unchecked, leading to direct viral-mediated cell lysis. Beyond direct oncolysis, pelareorep induces a systemic anti-tumor immune response by promoting the release of tumor-associated antigens and stimulating innate and adaptive immunity. It is being developed primarily by Oncolytics Biotech for various solid tumors and hematological malignancies.

Brand names

Reolysin

Other names

wild-type reovirusmammalian orthoreovirus type 3 Dearing strainreovirus type 3 Dearing