What is the mechanism by which oncolytic virus therapy operates?

Oncolytic virus therapy operates primarily by infecting and killing cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This mechanism leverages viruses that have been genetically modified or selected for their ability to selectively replicate in and destroy tumor cells. When oncolytic viruses infect cancer cells, they can cause cell lysis, leading to the death of those cells. This process not only reduces tumor mass but can also elicit an immune response against the cancer.

The specificity of oncolytic viruses for cancer cells often comes from the unique characteristics of the tumor microenvironment or the genetic alterations present in cancer cells that support viral replication. As the cancer cells die, they can release tumor antigens, which may further stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack any remaining cancer cells.

In contrast, other options present different therapeutic mechanisms entirely. Using modified bacteria to attack cancer cells is a separate approach known as bacterial therapy. Enhancing the body’s immune response through cytokines involves immunotherapy that uses immune signaling molecules but does not specifically involve viral mechanisms. Lastly, targeting tumors with radiotherapy involves the use of radiation to kill cancer cells, which is distinctly different from viral infection and lysis.