Herpes simplex virus type 1 (oncolytic variant) (HSV-1 (oncolytic))

Oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a genetically engineered virus used as a therapeutic agent in cancer treatment. Upon direct injection or intratumoral replication, the virus selectively infects and destroys tumor cells through lytic replication, sparing normal tissue due to engineered attenuations. The destruction of tumor cells releases immunogenic molecules that promote dendritic cell maturation and stimulate the activation of cytotoxic T cells, resulting in a robust antitumor immune response. These mechanisms combine direct oncolysis with systemic cancer immunotherapy, particularly for solid tumors. Several engineered variants express immune-stimulating transgenes, such as GM-CSF, anti-PD-1 antibody, or cytokines, to further augment antitumor efficacy[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Oncolytic HSV-1oHSV-1Oncolytic herpes simplex virus 1HSV-1-based oncolytic virusTalimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC)

Selective replication in tumor cells (lytic cycle) Direct tumor cell lysis Release of danger signals (ATP, HMGB1, calreticulin) triggering dendritic cell activation and cross-presentation to T cells Promotes antitumor innate and adaptive immune responses