Oncolytic viruses in cancer therapy: Exploring the mechanisms and clinical potential of mammalian and avian reoviruses

• DOI: 10.4103/etmj.etmj-d-24-00040
• Publication Date: 2025-03-18T06:00:12Z
• Authors: Yi-Ying Wu; Ming-Shan Chen; Tsai-Ling Liao; Muhammad Munir; Hung-Jen Liu
• Keywords: Cancer Therapy

Abstract Oncolytic viruses (OVs) can selectively infect and lyse cancer cells while simultaneously activating the host immune system making them a prospective class of anticancer immunotherapeutic agents. In particular, mammalian reovirus (MRV) avian (ARV) have gained unique attention for their significant properties clinical potentials. This review explores mechanisms action, immunological interactions, applications in OV therapy. Studies shown that MRV exploits defective antiviral responses to induce apoptosis autophagy, whereas ARV modulates mTORC1 energy metabolism pathways enhance viral replication. Both OVs elicit robust innate adaptive responses, which are critical long-term antitumor immunity. Combining with chemotherapy immunotherapy has synergistic effects, enhanced overcome treatment resistance. However, challenges around managing response efficient delivery virus remain unresolved. Ongoing future trials pivotal validating therapeutic potential these considering as innovative approaches oncology landscape.