Oncolytic virus-mediated tumor cell lysis

Oncolytic virus-mediated tumor cell lysis is a cancer therapeutic strategy in which viruses—either genetically engineered or naturally occurring—selectively infect and replicate within tumor cells, causing their destruction through cell lysis. The process also releases tumor-associated antigens and viral danger signals, thereby priming both innate and adaptive immune responses. While some oncolytic viruses are approved (e.g., talimogene laherparepvec for melanoma), most are in clinical trials. This mechanism is considered a platform approach that can be enhanced by engineering viruses to express immunomodulatory or therapeutic genes and combined with checkpoint inhibitors or other immunotherapies. The action depends on tumor-selective viral replication, often enabled by defects in tumor antiviral defense pathways and specific receptor expression, and triggers amplification of anti-tumor immunity. This is a process or modality rather than a conventional molecular target.

Other names

Oncolytic virotherapyoncolytic virus replicationviral oncolysisOV-mediated tumor cell lysis

Selective infection of tumor cells by engineered or naturally occurring viruses. Viral replication within cancer cells causing direct lysis. Release of immunogenic tumor antigens and danger signals to stimulate innate and adaptive immunity. Remodulation of tumor microenvironment to enhance anti-tumor responses.