Harnessing viral power: immunotherapy's synergy with targeted oncolytic viruses

Abstract

Cancer treatment has witnessed a profound transformation in recent decades, with combination therapy emerging as a beacon of hope for patients. This review delves into the groundbreaking synergy between immunotherapy and targeted oncolytic viruses, offering a glimpse into the future of cancer conquering. Traditional methods like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have limitations, especially in advanced or metastatic cancers. Immunotherapy, inspired by the body's innate defenses, leverages the immune system to selectively identify and eradicate cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, have showcased remarkable success in clinical trials, unlocking the potential of the immune system against once-intractable cancers. In tandem, oncolytic viruses exhibit precision targeting, minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Notably, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) has proven effective against various malignancies. The fusion of immunotherapy and oncolytic viruses represents a paradigm shift in cancer treatment, harnessing the strengths of each modality. This review explores mechanisms, recent developments, clinical triumphs, and the challenges of combination therapy. The dynamic synergy of these two approaches promises to revolutionize cancer treatment, transforming it from an insurmountable foe into a manageable condition.