rigvir

Rigvir is a live, non-pathogenic, non-genetically modified oncolytic virus therapy based on an adapted strain of echovirus 7 (ECHO-7), belonging to the Picornaviridae family and Enterovirus genus. It is classified as an immunomodulator with anti-tumoral properties and is primarily used for the treatment of melanoma, including local treatment of skin and subcutaneous metastases as well as prevention of relapse and metastases after radical surgery[1][3][5]. Rigvir selectively infects (oncotropism) and destroys (oncolysis) tumor cells while sparing healthy cells. Its mechanism involves direct lysis of cancer cells through viral replication within tumors and stimulation of the immune system by activating B and T lymphocytes, increasing leukocyte counts, enhancing cytotoxic immune responses (including CD4+, CD8+, CD95+ lymphocytes), dendritic cell activation, natural killer cell activity, macrophage response, and upregulation of tissue differentiation antigens associated with tumor cells[1][5][8]. Rigvir has been reported to improve time to progression, overall survival in melanoma patients post-surgery compared to observation alone[3][7], with additional case reports suggesting potential benefit in other cancers such as stomach cancer or small-cell lung cancer[1][3]. The drug was first registered in Latvia in 2004 for melanoma therapy.

Brand names

RIGVIR

Other names

ECHO-7 virusECHO7 virusECHO 7 virusechovirus 7echovirus7echovirus-7oncolytic ECHO-7 virus