Oncolytic virus (OV)

Oncolytic viruses are viruses that preferentially infect and selectively replicate in cancer cells, eventually leading to cell death without harming healthy cells. They function through a dual mechanism: direct oncolysis (destruction of cancer cells) and stimulation of anti-tumor immune responses. As infected cancer cells are destroyed, they release new infectious virus particles that help destroy remaining tumor cells and also release previously hidden tumor antigens that activate the immune system against the cancer. Oncolytic viruses can be naturally occurring (like reovirus and Seneca Valley virus) or genetically engineered (like modified herpes simplex virus, adenovirus, and vaccinia virus). They can be administered through various routes including direct intratumoral injection, intravenous delivery, or other specialized approaches depending on the cancer type. Several oncolytic viruses have received regulatory approval, including T-VEC (talimogene laherparepvec) for advanced melanoma in the US and EU, and nadofaragene firadenovec-vncg for bladder cancer. Oncolytic virus therapy represents a promising frontier in cancer treatment, particularly when combined with other immunotherapies or conventional treatments.

Other names

Oncolytic virotherapyViral therapyVirotherapy

Selective infection and replication in cancer cells, Oncolysis (destruction of cancer cells), Stimulation of anti-tumor immune responses, Modification of tumor microenvironment