ZD55-IL-18

ZD55-IL-18 is a **conditionally replicating oncolytic adenovirus** genetically engineered to express **interleukin-18 (IL-18)**, a pro-inflammatory cytokine. The viral backbone is derived from an adenovirus with a deletion in the E1B 55kDa gene, allowing selective replication in tumor cells. Upon infection of cancer cells (such as A375 melanoma), ZD55-IL-18 replicates and produces IL-18, which then stimulates antitumor immune responses and apoptosis. Studies indicate that ZD55-IL-18 enhances the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents (like dacarbazine), resulting in **synergistic antitumor activity**, increased apoptosis, inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and reduced metastasis in preclinical melanoma models.