Tumor Tropism of DNA Viruses for Oncolytic Virotherapy

Abstract

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have emerged as one of the most promising cancer immunotherapy agents that selectively target and kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells. OVs are from diverse families of viruses and can possess either a DNA or an RNA genome. These viruses also have either a natural or engineered tropism for cancer cells. Oncolytic DNA viruses have the additional advantage of a stable genome and multiple-transgene insertion capability without compromising infection or replication. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), a member of the oncolytic DNA viruses, has been approved for the treatment of cancers. This success with HSV-1 was achievable by introducing multiple genetic modifications within the virus to enhance cancer selectivity and reduce the toxicity to healthy cells. Here, we review the natural characteristics of and genetically engineered changes in selected DNA viruses that enhance the tumor tropism of these oncolytic viruses.

Frontiers and future of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: from molecular mechanisms to clinical application

“…OVs are a class of viruses that are capable of selectively infecting and killing tumor cells without damaging normal cells ( 177 ); these include both natural and genetically engineered strains. Upon reaching the tumor site, OVs do not infect or replicate in normal cells but specifically infect tumor cells ( 178 ). They lyse the tumor cells and release progeny viruses that infect the surrounding tumor cells ( 179 ).…”

The combination therapy of oncolytic virotherapy

“…As an emerging immunotherapy for tumors, oncolytic viruses selectively replicate within tumor cells to exert their anti-tumor effects while ensuring the safety of normal host cells ( Enow et al, 2023 ; Lin et al, 2023 ). As an innovative modality of immunotherapy in the field of tumor treatment, oncolytic viruses have garnered increasing attention.…”