UT-MeV1

UT-MeV1 is a recombinant, oncolytic measles virus (MeV) of the Edmonston strain, genetically engineered to target the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR). This targeting is achieved by displaying a single-chain antibody fragment (scFv) specific for uPAR on the viral hemagglutinin (H) protein, while simultaneously ablating the virus's natural tropism for its native receptors, CD46 and SLAM. Since uPAR is highly expressed in many aggressive cancers, such as glioblastoma multiforme and pancreatic cancer, but has limited expression in normal tissues, UT-MeV1 selectively infects and lyses malignant cells. The resulting viral replication leads to the formation of multinucleated syncytia and subsequent cell death, which can further trigger an immunogenic response against the tumor. UT-MeV1 represents a targeted approach to virotherapy, aiming to enhance efficacy while minimizing off-target toxicity.

Other names

uPAR-targeted measles virusrecombinant measles virus UT-MeV1