Nectin cell adhesion molecule 1 (Nectin-1) (NECTIN1)

Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) is a first-in-class oncolytic immunotherapy derived from a genetically modified herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) [FDA: Imlygic Label]. The drug targets tumor cells by binding to specific receptors on the cell membrane, primarily Nectin cell adhesion molecule 1 (Nectin-1) and Herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM), which facilitate viral attachment and fusion [UniProt: Q15223, Q92692]. These receptors are frequently expressed on the surface of melanoma cells, allowing T-VEC to selectively infect and replicate within the tumor [PubMed: 26005291]. Upon infection, the virus induces direct cell lysis (oncolysis) and expresses granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) to enhance the recruitment and activation of antigen-presenting cells [PubMed: 25079115]. This process releases tumor-derived antigens, which, in combination with GM-CSF, promotes a systemic T-cell mediated immune response against the cancer [Journal of Clinical Oncology: 33(25)]. Consequently, T-VEC provides both local tumor destruction and a broader immune-mediated effect against distant metastases.

Other names

Poliovirus receptor-related protein 1PVRL1CD111Herpesvirus entry mediator CHVECHIgRTumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 14HVEMTNFRSF14CD270LIGHTRCell membrane for talimogene laherparepvec

Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) binds to Nectin-1 and HVEM on the cell membrane to facilitate viral entry, leading to selective replication in tumor cells, oncolysis, and the expression of GM-CSF to stimulate a systemic antitumor immune response [FDA: Imlygic Label; PubMed: 26005291].