salmonella VNP20009

Salmonella VNP20009 is a genetically modified, attenuated strain of the bacterium *Salmonella typhimurium* that was developed by Vion Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of cancer. [5, 8] The strain is attenuated through chromosomal deletions in the *purI* and *msbB* genes, which makes it dependent on external purines to grow and reduces the toxicity associated with septic shock. [6, 13] VNP20009 was designed to act as an oncolytic agent by selectively targeting, accumulating, and replicating within the hypoxic and necrotic areas commonly found in solid tumors. [1, 9] In addition to its direct tumor-inhibiting effects, it can also be engineered to produce and deliver therapeutic proteins within the tumor microenvironment. [1, 13] Phase I clinical trials investigating intravenous and intratumoral administration were conducted in patients with advanced solid tumors, including metastatic melanoma and renal cell carcinoma. [1, 2, 3, 8] The trials established a maximum tolerated dose and demonstrated that the bacteria could colonize tumors in some patients. However, they failed to produce any objective tumor regressions, and development appears to have been discontinued. [1, 3, 4, 7]

Brand names

TAPET

Other names

Attenuated Salmonella typhimurium VNP20009