Tumor cells and tumor-associated antigens (TAA) (TAA)

Tumor cells and tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) represent the primary therapeutic targets for TMV-018, a recombinant, attenuated oncolytic measles virus [1, 12]. TMV-018 is engineered to selectively infect and replicate within tumor cells by binding to surface receptors such as CD46 and Nectin-4, which are frequently overexpressed in various malignancies [11]. The virus carries a transgene for super cytosine deaminase (SCD), an enzyme that facilitates the localized conversion of the prodrug flucytosine (5-FC) into the potent chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) directly within the tumor microenvironment [1, 12]. This localized production of 5-FU, combined with direct viral-mediated oncolysis, leads to the destruction of tumor cells and the subsequent release of a broad spectrum of TAAs [1, 4]. These released antigens are then presented to the host's immune system, potentially overcoming tumor-induced immunosuppression and eliciting a systemic, durable anti-tumor immune response [4, 9]. TMV-018 is currently being investigated in clinical trials for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal, esophageal, and gastric cancers, often in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors [12].

Other names

Tumor-associated antigensTumor-specific antigensCancer antigensNeoantigensTumor cellsTMV-018 component

Oncolytic viral therapy involving direct tumor cell lysis, localized conversion of the prodrug flucytosine to 5-fluorouracil via the super cytosine deaminase (SCD) transgene, and induction of a systemic immune response through the release of tumor-associated antigens.