Researchers unveiled a novel treatment for glioblastoma based on a modified herpes simplex virus. The experimental therapy substantially raised survival durations in preclinical models.
Glioblastoma is considered one of the most aggressive and resistant brain tumors. Scientists have long been endeavoring to devise treatments to stimulate immune cells against glioblastoma, but thus far, they struggle to achieve victory—the therapeutic effect remains limited because the tumor releases a large quantity of molecules to weaken immune cells.
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To address this issue, scientists from the USA modified the herpes simplex virus type one so that it recognizes biomarkers only on glioblastoma cells, reports News Medical. They engineered the virus to express five distinct immunomodulatory molecules to reprogram the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the researchers incorporated protective mutations preventing viral spread to neurons and other central nervous system cells.
Experiments on mouse models demonstrated a potent immune response against glioblastoma, along with an extension of the rodents’ lifespan.
“Our platform offers a multi-pronged strategy: precise tumor targeting, localized delivery of immunotherapeutic agents, and an intrinsic safety mechanism to safeguard healthy brain cells,” stated the authors. Currently, they are adapting the platform for treating other tumor types and are preparing to conduct pilot clinical trials.
Previously, other scientists discovered a hidden pathway for cancer cell migration into the brain. This finding aided in the complete eradication of recurrent glioblastoma.
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