Malignant tumor cells (permissive to G47Δ)

Tumor cells permissive to replication-selective G47Δ are malignant cells that provide a suitable environment for the replication of the third-generation oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), G47Δ (Teserpaturev). These cells are typically characterized by high levels of ribonucleotide reductase and a deficient protein kinase R (PKR) pathway, which the virus exploits to replicate selectively while sparing normal cells (Todo et al., 2001). G47Δ is engineered with three specific mutations: deletions of the γ34.5 and α47 genes, and an inactivation of the ICP6 gene, which collectively restrict viral replication to dividing cells and enhance the host's immune recognition of the tumor (Fukuhara et al., 2016). The therapeutic effect is achieved through direct viral-mediated cell lysis (oncolysis) and the subsequent release of tumor-associated antigens that trigger a systemic anti-tumor immune response (Todo et al., 2022). This target population is primarily relevant in the treatment of malignant gliomas, where G47Δ has demonstrated clinical efficacy and received regulatory approval in Japan. Safety is maintained because the virus is unable to replicate in healthy, non-dividing cells with intact antiviral mechanisms.

Other names

Cancer cellsNeoplastic cellsG47delta-susceptible cellsTeserpaturev-susceptible tumor cells

Direct viral-mediated oncolysis and induction of systemic anti-tumor immunity via enhanced antigen presentation and MHC class I upregulation.