What are oncolytic viruses and how do they work?
Oncolytic viruses are genetically modified or naturally occurring viruses designed to infect and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. These viruses replicate selectively within tumor cells, leading to their destruction through direct infection, immune activation, or both.
Oncolytic viruses work in phases:
- In direct oncolysis, the virus infects and replicates in cancer cells due to their defective antiviral responses
- Immune activation and viral replication cause the cancer cell to burst, releasing new viruses and tumor antigens
- The release of tumor antigens stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells
What are side effects of oncolytic viruses?
Side effects may vary depending on the type of virus, the target, location and type of cancer. The most common side effects include:
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Injection site pain
- Nausea
- Fever
Talk with your hematology oncologist to determine if oncolytic viruses are right for you.