Oncolytic Virotherapy Development Services

Oncolytic virotherapy for brain tumors utilizes engineered viruses to selectively infect and destroy cancerous cells within the brain while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. Alfa Cytology assists clients in developing oncolytic virotherapy for brain tumors by creating targeted viral vectors that effectively eliminate tumor cells.

Introduction to Oncolytic Virotherapy for Brain Tumors

Oncolytic virotherapy is an innovative treatment approach for brain tumors that utilizes genetically engineered viruses to selectively infect and destroy cancer cells while sparing normal healthy cells. These oncolytic viruses are designed to cross the blood-brain barrier and specifically target tumor cells within the brain. Upon infection, the viruses replicate within the cancer cells, leading to cell lysis (bursting) and the release of tumor antigens, which in turn stimulate a systemic anti-tumor immune response.

Fig 1. Schematic representation of oncolytic virus strategies targeting the GBM tumor microenvironment. (ASKARI F S, et al., 2023)

Virus of Oncolytic Virotherapy

Adenovirus

Adenoviruses have a large genome (~36 kb) and are easily genetically modified, allowing them to carry multiple therapeutic genes such as immune factors and oncogenes. Tumor-selective replication can be achieved by deleting genes like E1B.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1/HSV-2)

Naturally neurotropic, making them suitable for brain tumor therapy. Tumor specificity is enhanced by deleting genes such as ICP34.5 and ICP6.

Measles Virus

Naturally targets the CD46 receptor, which is highly expressed on tumor cells, and exhibits high genetic stability. It can be engineered to express the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) to facilitate imaging and enhance sensitivity to radiotherapy.

Vaccinia Virus

Exhibits rapid replication and can be delivered systemically. Tumor selectivity is achieved by knocking out genes like thymidine kinase (TK). It often carries immune-regulating genes such as GM-CSF.

Reovirus

Naturally targets tumor cells activated by the RAS signaling pathway without the need for genetic modification. It can penetrate the blood-brain barrier upon intravenous injection.

Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)

Selectively infects tumor cells due to their high expression of sialic acid receptors. It has a high safety profile and activates a strong antiviral immune response.

Our Services

Alfa Cytology, backed by an outstanding research team, is capable of providing development services for oncolytic virotherapy targeting brain tumors. We assist clients in completing their projects by leveraging our team's expertise throughout the research and development process.

Workflow of Oncolytic Virotherapy Development

Oncolytic Virus Construction

Oncolytic virus construction refers to the design and creation of viruses that can selectively infect and kill cancer cells. Through techniques like genetic engineering, these viruses are crafted to replicate within tumor cells and induce cell lysis, effectively destroying the cancerous tissue.

Oncolytic Virus Engineering

Oncolytic virus engineering involves the precise modification and optimization of the viral genome to enhance its specificity, safety, and anti-tumor efficacy. By tailoring the virus's genetic makeup, the aim is to improve its ability to selectively infect and destroy cancer cells while minimizing effects on normal healthy cells.

InVitro Evaluation

Infect brain tumor cell lines with the oncolytic virus. Use fluorescence labeling, Western blotting, etc., to assess viral replication and tumor cell lysis. Evaluate inhibition of tumor cell proliferation (e.g., CCK-8 assay) and test toxicity to normal brain cells to verify oncolytic activity and specificity.

In Vivo Evaluation

Create a brain tumor model by injecting tumor cells into mouse brains. Administer the oncolytic virus locally or systemically. Monitor tumor volume, weight, and behavior to assess tumor inhibition and survival extension. Analyze immune responses to evaluate in vivo efficacy and safety.

Alfa Cytology has completed numerous customized brain tumor research protocols, optimizing oncolytic viruses like adenovirus, HSV-1, and measles virus. Leveraging our expertise in virus engineering and delivery methods, we offer comprehensive solutions-from viral vector design to model validation-to support your development of oncolytic virotherapy for brain tumors. Contact our technical team for support.

Reference

1. ASKARI F S, MOHEBBI A, NING J, et al. Editorial: Recent advances in oncolytic virus therapy for brain tumors [J]. Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology, 2023, 13: 1271559.