Killing Cancer with Viruses! (Oncolytic Virus)
In the oncology therapeutic space, viruses are being used to target and attack tumors that have already formed. These modified cancer-destroying viruses are known as oncolytic viruses and they are a promising approach to treating cancer. Beyond just killing the cancerous cells, these oncolytic viruses can cause cancer cells to die via a “burst” method, which also releases cancer antigens. These antigens are able to stimulate the individual's immune system to seek out and eliminate any remaining tumor cells nearby.