the role of oncolytic viruses in cancer treatment and related news in veterinary medicine

Despite diverse treatment modalities and novel therapies, many cancers and patients are not effectively treated. oncolytic viruses (ovs) are a promising new therapeutic modality that exploits genetically engineered viruses to selectively replicate in and destroy cancerous cells while sparing normal tissues. the success of therapies using ovs was initially demonstrated by the use of the genetically modified herpes virus, talimogene laherparepvec, for the treatment of melanoma. several viruses including vaccinia virus, reovirus, parvovirus, picornavirus have been assessed as potential candidates for oncolytic virotherapy. there is currently limited data and research into the application of oncolytic virotherapy against spontaneously developed tumors of companion animals, particularly canine tumors. the goal of ovs is to create an immune response against the unique characteristics found on the tumor cells, known as tumor-associated antigens, or taas. ovs act by direct cytolysis, the potentiation of the immune system through antigen release, and the activation of inflammatory responses or indirectly by interference with different types of elements in the tumor microenvironment, modification of energy metabolism in tumor cells, and antiangiogenic action. considering their therapeutic efficacy, safety, and reduced side effects, the use of such engineered viruses in biological cancer therapy has the potential to establish a milestone in cancer research! however, the most challenging part of the oncolytic virotherapy is to identify the virus and the delivery method that best fits the patient’s system and activates the immune system against the tumor cells. therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the combination of ovs with other standard treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and cellular therapies, to increase the response rate.